Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful meal that brings together tender chicken, fresh basil, and creamy goodness. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor, making it a perfect dish for any night of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it’s quick to prepare and uses easily available ingredients. Plus, it’s a tasty way to enjoy chicken and pasta together with a herbal twist. Everyone in the family will love it!

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
1 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, basil pesto, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through.
Once the cherry tomatoes are roasted, add them to the pasta mixture along with the toasted pine nuts. Stir gently to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Serve this pasta hot right after making it. You can add extra basil on top for freshness. It pairs well with a simple salad or some crusty bread.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Use leftover chicken to save time.
Toast the pine nuts for a lovely crunch and enhanced taste.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.

Variation (If Any)

You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a lighter dish, use less heavy cream or choose a low-fat alternative.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto? Yes, store-bought pesto works great and saves time!
What can I substitute for pine nuts? You can use walnuts or sunflower seeds if you prefer.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the ingredients and assemble them earlier in the day, but it’s best to cook and serve the pasta fresh for the best taste.