Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and pasta in a rich, creamy pesto sauce. This meal is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. With an incredible blend of flavors and textures, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta will impress your family and friends without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy sauces and fresh pesto creates a flavorful experience every bite.
• Versatile Ingredient Use: You can customize with your favorite veggies or substitute proteins to suit your taste.
• Cheesy Goodness: The blend of Parmesan and Mozzarella adds a comforting and rich texture that everyone loves.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty pasta dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools for hassle-free preparation. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Pot for Boiling Pasta
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Cutting Board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Essential for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce simultaneously.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: A must-have for cooking pasta to perfection while you prepare the other ingredients.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing sauces smoothly, ensuring no lumps remain in your creamy pesto sauce.

Ingredients

Chicken Pesto Pasta has pasta and chicken coated in a creamy, cheesy pesto sauce. It’s an easy, delicious meal that’s ready in 30 minutes!

Pasta Ingredients

• ½ pound Penne pasta (about 2 1/2 cups dry)
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 2 Garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Chicken Ingredients

• 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Chicken broth
• 1 cup Half and half (or all milk/cream)
• ½ cup Freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 cup Freshly shredded Mozzarella
• ½ cup Basil pesto (or more, to taste)

Garnish Ingredients

• Fresh basil (for garnish, if desired)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta once cooked and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, followed by bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. Transfer the chicken to a plate when done.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Return the skillet to medium heat. Melt butter in the skillet, then whisk in flour until golden brown (about 3 minutes). Gradually add chicken broth and half & half while whisking continuously. Bring to a boil; reduce heat if boiling too rapidly. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Remove from heat. Stir in basil pesto, grated Parmesan, and shredded Mozzarella cheese until well combined. Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together gently until fully coated with sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped basil and cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor.

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy this quick yet indulgent meal any night of the week!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the pasta, creating a rich flavor profile.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Adding mozzarella or Parmesan makes it even more indulgent.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor and a touch of elegance.
• Mozzarella: Melting mozzarella on top just before serving creates a gooey finish.

Serve with Wine

• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the creamy pesto flavors.
• Rosé: This refreshing option complements the richness without overpowering it.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adding whole leaves right before serving brings brightness and color.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of zest can enhance the flavors and add a hint of citrus.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for freshly made pesto if possible.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you follow package instructions for cooking time to keep the pasta firm and prevent mushiness.
• Gradually Add Cheese: Incorporate cheese slowly into the sauce for a smooth texture, preventing clumping.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. The amount of salt and pepper may vary based on personal preference and broth used.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Allow the sauce to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency; this enhances flavor concentration.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your pasta right after mixing it with the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Completing your meal with complementary side dishes can take your dining experience to another level. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots roasted until tender adds color and nutrition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds crunch but also balances out the creaminess of the pasta.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a fresh contrast.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses offers variety and richness that pairs well with pasta.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil is a light starter that complements the main course beautifully.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter brings sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using overcooked pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushy noodles. Always follow package instructions for al dente pasta.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Skipping salt and pepper can result in bland chicken. Make sure to season generously for better flavor.

• Adding cheese too quickly: Dumping all the cheese in at once can cause it to clump. Gradually add cheese while stirring to ensure it melts evenly.

• Ignoring sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t cling well to the pasta. Allow the sauce to simmer longer until it thickens properly.

• Forgetting fresh herbs: Skipping the garnish of fresh basil can make your dish less vibrant. Always add fresh herbs before serving for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta:

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute other pasta types like fettuccine or spaghetti based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of cheese or butter for a lighter version of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta.

What other proteins can I use?

Feel free to replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components ahead and assemble them just before serving for optimal freshness.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that everyone will love! Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!