Pesto Pasta With Chicken
Why make this recipe
Pesto Pasta with Chicken is a delicious dish that combines the flavors of creamy pesto and tender chicken with pasta. It is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. This recipe is not only flavorful but also colorful, thanks to the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite pasta and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love.
How to make Pesto Pasta With Chicken
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Reduce heat, add pesto and heavy cream, and stir until well combined.
- Add cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, mixing until everything is coated in the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until melted.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
How to serve Pesto Pasta With Chicken
Serve Pesto Pasta with Chicken warm, right after cooking. You can plate the pasta and chicken mixture and sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Don’t forget to add fresh basil leaves for a beautiful and fragrant garnish. This dish pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread.
How to store Pesto Pasta With Chicken
To store leftover Pesto Pasta with Chicken, allow it to cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to keep it moist.
Tips to make Pesto Pasta With Chicken
- Use fresh pesto if you can, as it gives the best flavor.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more or less cream, depending on your preference.
- For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas. You can also switch the pasta for gluten-free options if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works great and saves you time. Just make sure to choose a good quality brand for the best taste.
2. What types of pasta work best?
You can use any pasta you like! Fettuccine, penne, or rotini are all good choices that hold onto the sauce well.
3. Can I freeze Pesto Pasta with Chicken?
While it is possible to freeze it, the texture may change once reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze them for up to a month.
Pesto Pasta with Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Reduce heat, add pesto and heavy cream, and stir until well combined.
- Add cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, mixing until everything is coated in the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until melted.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
