Easy Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Elena Butuc

Dive into a mouthwatering blend of pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce. This delightful dish has been a repeat favorite in many households. The hint of pesto elevates the pasta's flavor without overpowering it, making it a hit even among kids who might typically shy away from its distinct taste.

For those who keep homemade pesto handy for sandwiches, this chicken pasta recipe is another delicious use for it. Guaranteed to earn praises from all ages, don't miss out on trying this delectable dish!

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Ingredients

Metric US

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Pasta

500 g

choose your preferred shape

●

Chicken breast

1 piece

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Pesto sauce

2 tbsp

store-bought or homemade; reference in the steps and description

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Heavy cream (32% fat)

250 g

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Onions

1 piece

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Garlic cloves

5 pieces

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Cherry tomatoes

10 pieces

optional

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Chopped parsley

3 tbsp

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Parmesan

50 g

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Salt

1 tsp

adjust to taste

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Ground black pepper

0.25 tsp

adjust to taste

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Vegetable oil

50 ml

Step by step

Step 1

Gather and prep all ingredients. Slice the chicken breast into thin julienne strips.

Step 2

In a large pot, bring 4 liters of water and 1 tablespoon of salt to a boil.

Add pasta and cook as per package instructions.

Easy Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta - Step 2

Step 3

Concurrently, heat a pan with oil. Sauté the chopped onion until slightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Incorporate the chopped garlic, stirring for about 1 minute.

Step 5

Introduce the sliced chicken breast. Cook until slightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Mix in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.

Step 7

Add the cooking cream and pesto sauce. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and add in the parsley.

Reduce the heat to low while the pasta cooks.

Easy Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta - Step 8

Step 9

As the pasta gets ready, reserve approximately 300ml of the pasta water before draining the rest.

Step 10

Transfer the drained pasta to the pan with the sauce.

Step 11

Stir in the grated Parmesan and the reserved hot pasta water.

Step 12

Toss the mixture ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. For optimal creaminess, serve immediately, possibly sprinkled with some extra Parmesan.

Note: Letting it sit for over 15 minutes will make the pasta absorb the sauce, reducing its creaminess, though it will remain flavorful.

Bon Appetit!