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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

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A delightful dish of tender chicken, pasta, and a rich creamy pesto sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced (about 10.5 ounces total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional, for extra nutrition)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions so it is just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until cooked through and lightly golden, which takes about 5–6 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and whole milk, then bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Mix in basil pesto and grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce is smooth and melted.
  5. Return the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and spinach (if using) to the sauce. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the coated mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  8. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese. Pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta, chicken, creamy sauce, pesto, weeknight dinner, Italian recipe

Find it online: https://yourfavoriterecipes.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-pasta/