Chicken Pesto Pasta

This chicken pesto pasta is the perfect dinner recipe for a special date night or whenever you need a creamy bowl of Italian-style comfort in your life. With just 20 minutes and some basil pesto on hand, you can whip up this delightful dish that is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Comfort: The combination of heavy cream and basil pesto creates a rich, satisfying sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or serve it during special occasions.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, and spices elevate the taste profile.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is loved by both adults and kids, making it a family favorite.

Tools and Preparation

To make this chicken pesto pasta efficiently, having the right tools will make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet
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• Medium pot
• Colander
• Cooking spoon
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking while cooking the chicken and helps in easy cleanup.
• Medium pot: Ideal for boiling pasta to ensure it cooks evenly.
• Colander: Perfect for draining pasta without losing any precious noodles.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
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• 8 ounces penne pasta, (preferably with ridges)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, (plus more for serving if you like)
• 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, (drained if packed in oil)
• 1/2 cup basil pesto, (homemade or quality store-bought, plus more if you like)
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Handful of torn basil leaves, (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Add the chicken to a bowl and season with Italian seasoning along with a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add about 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. Drop in the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions (about 8 to 9 minutes).

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken pieces replica watches and cook until golden brown on the outside and cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes. Toss occasionally for even cooking.

Step 4: Drain the Pasta

Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Then drain the pasta using a colander.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Lower the heat under the skillet with chicken. Stir in drained pasta, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix until everything is well combined. If it appears dry, add reserved cooking water gradually until glossy.

Step 6: Add Pesto

Turn off the heat and remove from burner. Stir in basil pesto thoroughly before finishing with grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, and torn basil leaves for garnish. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta

Chicken pesto pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant date night, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the pasta’s flavors beautifully.

Adding Extra Protein

• Grilled Shrimp: For seafood lovers, grilled shrimp can add a delicious twist.
• Sautéed Vegetables: Incorporating seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers boosts nutrition.

Complementing with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette offers a crunchy texture alongside the soft pasta.

Pairing with Wine

• Chardonnay: This white wine enhances the creaminess of the dish.
• Pinot Noir: A light red that balances well with the rich flavors of chicken pesto pasta.

How to Perfect Chicken Pesto Pasta

To achieve the best chicken pesto pasta, consider these simple tips that ensure flavor and texture come together perfectly.

• Use Quality Pesto: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought basil pesto for authentic taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente to keep it firm and prevent mushiness when combined with the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Saving some cooking water helps adjust sauce consistency if needed.
• Season Generously: Proper seasoning of both chicken and pasta elevates overall flavor; don’t skip salt and pepper.
• Garnish Creatively: Fresh basil leaves or extra parmesan on top not only enhance presentation but also add flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Pesto Pasta

Pairing side dishes with chicken pesto pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted with garlic adds a savory touch.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an easy appetizer.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy green option that’s easy to prepare.
5. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates an exciting starter.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve zucchini noodles alongside your pasta dish.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned simply can complement the creamy pasta nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Pesto Pasta, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious meal.

• Using pre-cooked chicken: Always use raw chicken for the best flavor and texture. Pre-cooked chicken can lead to dryness in your dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta longer than recommended can result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions carefully for al dente perfection.
• Skipping the pasta water: The reserved pasta water adds creaminess and helps bind the sauce. Don’t forget to save some before draining!
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Make sure to season each layer, from the chicken to the pasta.
• Adding pesto while on high heat: High heat can destroy the fresh flavors of pesto. Always stir it in off the heat for maximum taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Pesto Pasta in an airtight container.
• It lasts for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of cream if it looks dry.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval to heat evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a little reserved pasta water or cream to loosen up the sauce as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Pesto Pasta that may help you during preparation.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, using quality store-bought pesto is perfectly fine and saves time.

What type of pasta works best in Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Penne is ideal due to its ridges, which hold onto the creamy sauce well.

How can I customize my Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for variety.

Is Chicken Pesto Pasta healthy?

With lean protein and healthy fats from pesto, it’s a balanced meal option when enjoyed in moderation.

How long does Chicken Pesto Pasta take to prepare?

This recipe is quick! You can have it ready in just 20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy flavors with a hint of basil freshness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy and satisfying this recipe is!