When it comes to comfort food, pesto chicken pasta stands out as a delicious and satisfying dish. This recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy pesto sauce to create a mouth-watering meal that’s ready in no time. The fresh flavors of this dish make it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. You can easily prepare this in under 30 minutes and feel like a culinary star in your own kitchen.
Why We Love This Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
This pesto chicken pasta recipe is a favorite in many households for good reason. Firstly, it’s incredibly versatile; you can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The creamy pesto sauce envelops the chicken and pasta, delivering a burst of flavor with every bite. It’s also a one-pan dish, which means less time spent cleaning up after a meal. Plus, it’s packed with fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, adding both nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients about Pesto Chicken Pasta
To whip up this delightful meal, gather the following ingredients. They combine to create a rich and flavorful sauce that envelops the chicken and pasta perfectly.
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 lb. penne pasta
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup milk
- 3 oz. cream cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper (optional)
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
How to Make Pesto Chicken Pasta Directions
Now that you have your ingredients in hand, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delectable dish.
- Start by slicing the boneless skinless chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the sauce.
- Heat a deep skillet over medium heat and melt two tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add your cubed chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it becomes golden brown and fully cooked through. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- While the chicken is cooking, mince the garlic cloves. Once the chicken is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to burn it.
- Now it’s time to introduce the penne pasta and the chicken broth. Stir these ingredients well to combine, then cover the skillet and bring everything to a boil.
- After it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet again. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 8 minutes, giving the pasta enough time to cook and absorb some of the broth flavor.
- Once the pasta is cooked al dente, pour in the milk, followed by the cubed cream cheese and basil pesto. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and blends seamlessly with the milk and pesto, creating a creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well. This will add an extra layer of flavor and richness to your dish.
- Next, gently fold in the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir gently until the spinach wilts down, incorporating it into your creamy pasta mixture.
- Finally, season your dish with freshly cracked pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper if you enjoy a bit of heat. Serve hot and enjoy every flavorful bite!
How to Serve Pesto Chicken Pasta
This dish can be served in a variety of enticing ways. Start by plating it in large bowls, ensuring that each serving has plenty of creamy sauce, chicken, vegetables, and pasta. You can also sprinkle an extra pinch of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
For a fresh touch, consider garnishing your plates with a few fresh basil leaves or a small drizzle of olive oil. Pair this delightful pasta with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meal. If you like bread, some crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette is a great addition for soaking up any remaining sauce.
Expert Tips: Pesto Chicken Pasta
To make the most of your pesto chicken pasta experience, here are a few expert tips to consider:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients can elevate the taste of your dish. Look for good-quality basil pesto, fresh vegetables, and organic chicken if possible.
- Be Mindful of Cooking Time: Cook the chicken just until golden brown, and ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
- Adjust Creaminess to Taste: If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to increase the amount of cream cheese or milk. Conversely, for a lighter version, you can reduce the cream cheese.
- Experiment With Veggies: This recipe is adaptable. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the nutrient content and flavor.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. The creamy sauce can thicken as it sits, so serve it right after cooking for the best experience.
How to Store Pesto Chicken Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to believe that would happen), you can store your pesto chicken pasta with ease. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken when refrigerated.
To prolong the life of your dish, consider freezing it in individual portions. Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variation of Pesto Chicken Pasta
One of the greatest aspects of pesto chicken pasta is its ability to adapt to a myriad of tastes and dietary needs. Here are some variations to inspire your cooking:
- Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian pesto pasta, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. The creamy sauce combined with these protein-rich options maintains the dish’s heartiness while keeping it meat-free.
- Whole Wheat Option: For a healthier option, try using whole wheat penne pasta. This provides extra fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: If you’re gluten-sensitive, opt for gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. The cooking process remains the same.
- Pasta Salad Variation: Transform this recipe into a pasta salad by allowing it to cool after cooking, mixing in chopped veggies, and serving it chilled. It’s perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
- Add Extra Ingredients: Boost the nutritional profile of your dish by adding mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts. These will not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your meal.
FAQ
What is Pesto Chicken Pasta?
Pesto chicken pasta is a flavorful dish that combines cooked chicken, pasta, and a creamy pesto sauce, often accompanied by vegetables like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. The recipe is popular for its quick preparation and delicious flavors.
How do I make the sauce less creamy?
To make the sauce less creamy, you can reduce the amount of cream cheese and milk in the recipe. You can also add more chicken broth to maintain the desired consistency without the creaminess.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, using store-bought pesto is a convenient option for this recipe. However, making your own pesto can enhance the flavor significantly if you have the time.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. This allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious meal.
Can I make Pesto Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time by cooking the chicken and pasta separately. However, it’s best to combine them and add the sauce right before serving to maintain the dish’s fresh taste and texture.
Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 lb penne pasta
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup milk
- 3 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper (optional)
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the boneless skinless chicken breast into 1-inch cubes.
- Heat a deep skillet over medium heat and melt two tablespoons of butter.
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet once the chicken is browned. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the penne pasta and chicken broth, stirring well. Cover the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, cover again, and simmer for about 8 minutes.
- After the pasta is al dente, pour in the milk, cream cheese, and basil pesto, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Gently fold in the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Season with freshly cracked pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper if desired. Serve hot.
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