Nestled in the simple joys of family dinners and the creativity they spark, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe brings together the best of both worlds: a deliciously rich meal that’s easy to prepare and a sophisticated dish perfect for any occasion. The tender pieces of chicken, the vibrant charm of cherry tomatoes, and the lush, aromatic pesto sauce create a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. Imagine gathering around the table, sharing stories and laughter, with a hearty plate of this creamy delight in front of you – it’s these moments that Zynahz cherishes and aims to bring into your home.
Recipe Summary:
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 12 oz. pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Stir in the basil pesto until well combined. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and add to the skillet with the sauce.
- Fold the cherry tomatoes into the pasta, allowing them to warm through. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips
Variations: Use cooked shrimp instead of chicken for a delightful twist. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Substitutions: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a slightly different flavor.
Pairings
This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try it with a refreshing sparkling water infused with a hint of lemon.
At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen. We encourage you to try this recipe, share the experience with your loved ones, and spread the word about our delightful dishes. We would love to see your culinary creations, so don’t forget to tag us on social media. Explore more recipes on Zynahz, sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates, and let’s make every meal a moment to cherish.
