Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and rich basil pesto for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various palates and occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy chicken pesto pasta can be made in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of roasted tomatoes, garlic, and basil pesto creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to personalize this recipe.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the following essential tools before you start. These tools will help you efficiently prepare the creamy chicken pesto pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Casserole dish
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows even cooking of chicken and mixing of the pasta with sauce.
• Casserole dish: Perfect for roasting cherry tomatoes, ensuring they caramelize nicely.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures pasta cooks evenly with ample space.

Ingredients

This delicious Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a great choice for a simple weeknight dinner. The recipe uses basic everyday ingredients and is perfect for family meals. You can use store-bought basil pesto or make your own.

For the Roasted Tomatoes

• 10 oz cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lb chicken breast (2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Pasta

• 8 oz pasta (bow-tie, penne, or fusilli)
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the sliced cherry tomatoes with olive oil and minced garlic. Spread them out in a casserole dish and roast for about 20 minutes while preparing other components of the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take 1.5 lb of chicken breasts—usually two large ones—and slice each breast in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil on medium-high heat in a large skillet until hot. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes per side until fully cooked through. Once done, remove from heat and set aside on a plate; thinly slice when cool enough.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

In the same skillet used for cooking chicken, add cooked pasta along with basil pesto and heavy cream. Stir gently over low heat until everything is combined well and heated through.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Top your creamy chicken pesto pasta with sliced cooked chicken, roasted tomatoes, and pine nuts if desired. Finish by seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes according to taste.

Enjoy this easy-to-make meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Toast slices of garlic bread for a crunchy accompaniment that complements the creamy pasta.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Serve alongside a green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese

• Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor and creaminess.

Garnish with Fresh Basil

• Fresh basil leaves not only add color but also enhance the pesto flavor of the dish.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Pair it with grilled asparagus or zucchini to add a healthy, smoky element to your meal.

Include a Glass of Lemonade

• A chilled glass of lemonade balances the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes will significantly enhance the flavors of your pasta.
• Cook chicken evenly: Make sure your chicken breasts are evenly sliced to ensure they cook through properly.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Cook your pasta al dente so it retains its texture and holds onto the sauce better.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and paprika according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Keep sauce creamy: Stir in the cream gently to maintain its consistency without making it too thick.
• Experiment with nuts: Use different nuts like walnuts or almonds as alternatives to pine nuts for added crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine and savory dressing that pairs perfectly with creamy dishes.

2. Garlic Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy garlic roasted potatoes provide a satisfying texture contrast while being easy to prepare.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy green addition that balances out the richness of the pasta.

4. Caprese Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for delightful finger food.

5. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil gives an Italian twist that complements the main dish.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles sautéed lightly in olive oil alongside your creamy pasta.

7. Roasted Bell Peppers
   Sweet roasted bell peppers add color and flavor while being easy to prepare on the grill or in the oven.

8. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses offers variety and enhances the Italian theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes you should avoid:

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure that the chicken is cooked just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This keeps it juicy and tender.
• Not seasoning enough: Proper seasoning enhances flavor. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and paprika on the chicken for maximum taste.
• Using too much pasta water: Adding excess pasta water can make the sauce too watery. Use just enough to create a creamy consistency.
• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting cherry tomatoes adds depth of flavor. Avoid skipping this step for a more delicious dish.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using fresh basil pesto and high-quality olive oil makes a noticeable difference. Always choose quality ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easy thawing.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or cream in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as dairy-free alternatives to heavy cream while keeping the dish creamy.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options.

How can I customize Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. You can also experiment with different proteins like turkey or beef.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta stores well and makes great leftovers, perfect for meal prepping during busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is not only simple and quick but also offers delicious flavors that everyone will enjoy. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and experience its delightful taste!