Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a dish that will wow your taste buds. This rich, flavorful meal is easy to make and perfect for any night. In this post, I’ll share all the steps to create this delicious dish, plus tips for great chicken and creamy sauce. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find helpful ideas and variations to enjoy. Let’s dive into this tasty adventure together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: This pasta dish combines the richness of heavy cream with the bold flavors of basil pesto, creating a comforting and indulgent meal.
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Versatile Ingredients: Using readily available ingredients like chicken and cherry tomatoes, you can customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves four, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup basil pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Key Ingredient Notes
Fettuccine pasta gives this dish a nice, rich texture. You can use other types of pasta if you want. Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. They soak up flavor well. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. Basil pesto adds a burst of fresh taste. You can buy it or make your own for more fun. Cherry tomatoes add some sweetness and color. Fresh basil leaves are great for garnish. They look nice and taste fresh.
Suggested Substitutions
If you want to change things up, try whole wheat pasta for a healthier choice. You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu if you want meatless. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes work. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option. These changes still taste great and keep the dish delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Fettuccine
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta. Cook it according to the package directions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta well, but save ½ cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
Preparing the Chicken
Next, take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. The chicken should be golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. Once it cools a bit, slice it into strips.
Making the Creamy Pesto Sauce
In the same skillet, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute until it smells great. Then, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Add ½ cup of basil pesto, either store-bought or homemade, and mix it in until the sauce is smooth. Next, toss in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Let them soften for about 3 to 4 minutes.
Combining the Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked fettuccine to the creamy pesto sauce. If you want a creamier dish, use some of the reserved pasta water. Then, add the sliced chicken, mixing it all until the chicken is well-coated with the sauce. Finally, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Ensure it melts and blends into the dish. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken
To cook chicken breast well, start with even pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color. Use a meat thermometer to check if they reach 165°F. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy and tender. Slice it just before serving.
Pasta Cooking Tips
When cooking fettuccine, follow the package directions closely. Use a large pot with plenty of water. Add salt to the water for flavor. Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook it until al dente, which means firm to the bite. Remember to save some pasta water before draining. This water is starchy and helps the sauce stick better.
Achieving the Right Creaminess
For a creamy sauce, use heavy cream as your base. Heat it gently in the skillet after cooking garlic. Stir in basil pesto until it mixes well. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water. This will help you reach the perfect creamy texture. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese last, allowing it to melt smoothly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to make it just right.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Basil Pesto: For the best flavor, opt for fresh basil pesto if possible, as it adds a vibrant taste that elevates the dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked until golden brown and juicy by using a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce consistency and make it creamier.
- Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation by garnishing with not only fresh basil leaves but also a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick.
Variations
Gluten-Free Options
You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options that cook well. Just follow the package directions. The rest of the recipe stays the same.
Vegetarian Adaptations
To make this dish vegetarian, skip the chicken. You can add more veggies instead. Try using mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them in the olive oil before adding garlic. This will give your dish a nice depth of flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor in many ways. Adding fresh spinach will give it a nice pop of color and nutrients. Simply toss in a few cups of spinach when you add the cherry tomatoes. Sun-dried tomatoes also work great. They add a sweet and tangy taste. Just chop them up and mix them in with the sauce.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your creamy pesto chicken pasta, let it cool before storing. Place the pasta in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for later. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, take them out of the fridge. You can reheat the pasta on the stove or in the microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat over low until warm. In the microwave, use medium power and heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots.
Freezing Tips
To freeze creamy pesto chicken pasta, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as it will expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy this rich and flavorful dish anytime!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes, you can skip the heavy cream. Use Greek yogurt or coconut milk instead. These will give you a creamy texture without dairy. If you want a lighter sauce, try using vegetable broth mixed with a bit of cornstarch. This will help thicken the sauce and keep it creamy.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
Cooking chicken breasts takes about 12 to 15 minutes. Sear them for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it is safe to eat. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside and makes it more tender.
What can I serve with creamy pesto chicken pasta?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve roasted vegetables for extra flavor. If you love cheese, sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for a rich finish.
How to make homemade basil pesto?
To make basil pesto, gather these ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ⅓ cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic
– ½ cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
Blend basil, cheese, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor. Slowly add olive oil until smooth. Taste and add salt as needed. This homemade pesto adds a fresh, bold flavor to your creamy pesto chicken pasta.
This blog post covered the key ingredients for creamy pesto chicken pasta and offered step-by-step cooking instructions. I also shared useful tips for perfect chicken, pasta, and sauce texture. We explored different variations, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Finally, I provided guidance on storing leftovers and answered common questions.
No matter your skill level, this dish is easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventur
