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Easy Creamy 5-Ingredient Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe for Quick Dinner

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A quick and easy creamy pesto chicken pasta made with just five ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights and comforting meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream (can substitute with half-and-half for lighter option)
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Stir in 1/2 cup pesto sauce and 1/3 cup heavy cream into the skillet. Mix well until sauce is smooth and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time to loosen.
  5. Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil.

Notes

Do not rush cooking the chicken to get a good sear for better flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use moderate heat when adding cream and pesto to avoid curdling. Pre-cooked chicken can be used to save time. Add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto chicken pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, 5-ingredient pasta, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/easy-creamy-5-ingredient-pesto-chicken-pasta-recipe-for-quick-dinner/