Pesto Chicken Pasta: Elevate Your Taste Buds with Creamy Bliss

Cooking has always been a part of my life, a way to connect and create. The aroma of fresh basil and the sizzle of chicken in a skillet bring back memories of family gatherings and joyful meals shared. Today, we dive into a delightful recipe that embodies these cherished moments—Pesto Chicken Pasta. This dish combines comfort with vibrant flavors, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Pesto Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that brings together tender chicken and al dente pasta, all coated in a creamy basil pesto sauce. It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend dinner. The simplicity of its preparation, combined with its rich taste, makes it a favorite for many.

The beauty of Pesto Chicken Pasta lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into a culinary delight. With just a few steps, you can create a meal that feels both special and comforting. Let’s explore how this dish comes together and why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.

Pesto Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Discover how to make delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta with our easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces (227 g) (227 grams) pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
• 1 cup (240 ml) (240 milliliters) basil pesto sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) (60 milliliters) coconut cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) (25 grams) grated vegetarian cheese
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) (37 grams) pine nuts, toasted
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
6. Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
7. Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
8. Slice the chicken into thin strips and set aside.
9. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
10. Sauté minced garlic in the skillet for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
11. Lower the heat and stir in the basil pesto sauce.
12. Add heavy cream to the pesto and mix until well combined.
13. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and coat with the pesto sauce.
14. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
15. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts.
16. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
17. Serve the pesto chicken pasta garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

• Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor and adds a crunchy texture.
• For a creamier sauce, swap heavy cream for coconut cream.
• Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 600
• Fat: 30g
• Protein: 30g

Keywords: pesto chicken, creamy pasta, homemade pesto, skillet dinner, flavorful dish

Pesto Chicken Pasta: A Flavorful Adventure

Fundamentals

Pesto Chicken Pasta starts with quality ingredients. Selecting fresh basil pesto sauce, succulent chicken breasts, and your choice of pasta sets the stage for a delightful meal. The combination of coconut cream and olive oil adds a luscious texture to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.

The key to success is in the preparation. Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt and black pepper to enhance its natural flavors. While the chicken cooks, the pasta boils to perfection, creating a seamless cooking process. This dish is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the harmony they create together.

Preparation/Setup

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step ensures that the pasta absorbs the right amount of flavor as it cooks. Once the water is ready, add your preferred pasta, such as penne or fusilli, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, as this will be your base.

Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.

Mastering the Art of Pesto Chicken Pasta

Technique

Creating the perfect Pesto Chicken Pasta lies in the technique. After cooking the chicken, use the same skillet to sauté minced garlic. This step infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma that complements the basil pesto sauce. Once the garlic becomes fragrant, lower the heat and stir in the pesto sauce.

Incorporate coconut cream into the pesto mixture for a creamy consistency. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also gives the sauce a velvety texture. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the sauce. This technique helps marry the flavors, creating a cohesive dish.

Tips/Tricks

For an even richer flavor, toast pine nuts before incorporating them into the dish. This step adds a nutty aroma and a delightful crunch that elevates the overall texture. Remember to adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.

Consider using a non-stick skillet to prevent the sauce from sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This small adjustment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. For those who love experimenting, try substituting different pasta shapes or incorporating additional vegetables for added variety.

Perfect Your Pesto Chicken Pasta Game

Perfecting Results

Achieving perfection with Pesto Chicken Pasta requires attention to detail. Ensure the chicken breasts are cooked to the right temperature, allowing them to remain juicy and tender. The pasta should be cooked al dente, providing a satisfying bite that complements the creamy sauce.

Incorporate grated vegetarian cheese into the dish for an added layer of flavor. This cheese melts beautifully, integrating into the sauce and enhancing the dish’s richness. The final touch of fresh basil leaves adds a pop of color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing and aromatic.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If the sauce appears too thick, adjust by adding a splash of pasta water. This technique helps achieve the desired consistency without compromising flavor. For a lighter version, consider reducing the amount of coconut cream and incorporating more vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.

Looking for more chicken pasta inspirations? Explore our one pot chicken pasta broccoli and one pot parmesan chicken pasta for fresh ideas. These variations offer unique twists while maintaining the comforting essence of pasta dishes.

Serving and Storing Pesto Chicken Pasta

Serving/Presentation

Presentation plays a crucial role in the dining experience. Serve Pesto Chicken Pasta in a large, shallow bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of elegance and aroma. The visual appeal enhances the anticipation, making every bite even more enjoyable.

For added texture, sprinkle toasted pine nuts and a bit more grated cheese on top. This finishing touch not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta makes for a truly satisfying meal.

Pairings/Storage

Pair this dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The fresh greens and crispy bread complement the rich flavors of the pasta. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Explore more pasta delights with our Mediterranean chicken feta pasta and lemon chicken pasta. These dishes offer exciting flavor combinations, perfect for expanding your culinary repertoire.

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. This dish combines simplicity with sophistication, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks. The versatility of the ingredients allows for endless variations, ensuring you never tire of its deliciousness.

The strength of Pesto Chicken Pasta lies in its ability to bring people together. Whether it’s a quiet family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this dish always delivers satisfaction. Its rich flavors and comforting essence make it a staple in any kitchen.

For more delightful chicken recipes, check out the Mediterranean chicken pasta salad or explore the unique sous vide chicken breasts with lemon garlic and rosemary. These options offer new ways to enjoy chicken, keeping your culinary adventures fresh and exciting.

FAQs – Pesto Chicken Pasta