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When it comes to pasta dishes that are both comforting and full of flavor, Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta stands out as a quintessential choice. This dish strikes the perfect balance between a creamy sauce and the vibrant, herbaceous notes of pesto, making it an ideal meal for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. The allure of this recipe lies not only in its rich flavors but also in its simplicity, allowing even novice cooks to whip up a gourmet experience in no time.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, a dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente penne, and a rich, creamy pesto sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is simple enough for novice cooks yet satisfying for all. Featuring fresh ingredients like garlic, cherry tomatoes, and vibrant basil pesto, each bite is a flavorful delight. Discover how to create this culinary experience that elevates any meal.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Salt and black pepper, to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.

      Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently for 2 minutes before adding the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

        Combine: Add the cooked penne pasta and cherry tomatoes to the chicken and sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

          Serve: Plate the creamy pesto chicken pasta. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious meal!

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings

              15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings