Quick and Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
Discover the Quick and Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe, where fragrant basil pesto meets tender chicken and a velvety sauce over al dente fettuccine. With only five ingredients and a 20-minute prep time, it's perfect for busy evenings.
The real magic lies in the Parmesan transformation, adding a gourmet touch with minimal effort. Curious to learn more? Let's explore the process together.
Key Takeaways
- The recipe features only five ingredients: fettuccine, chicken, basil pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Prepare the dish in approximately 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Boil pasta, sauté chicken, and combine with pesto, cream, and Parmesan for a rich sauce.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and garnish with fresh basil or red pepper flakes.
- The dish is flavorful, creamy, and can be customized with different pasta types.
Recipe
Quick and Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is an effortless yet delicious dish that brings together the flavors of basil pesto, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ideal for weeknight dinners, it offers a delightful blend of creamy and savory tastes, making it a favorite among both adults and children.
The simplicity of this recipe, using only five ingredients, ensures that you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in just about 20 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings or when you're entertaining guests.
The dish's versatility is one of its main attractions, allowing you to customize it to your liking. You can experiment with different types of pasta or adjust the amount of pesto and Parmesan to suit your taste. Despite its simplicity, this recipe doesn't compromise on flavor, providing a satisfying and comforting meal that's sure to impress.
Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, you'll find this recipe easy to follow and rewarding to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
To prepare this dish, begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced chicken. Cook the chicken until it's golden brown and cooked through, then stir in the basil pesto and heavy cream, combining everything well.
Lower the heat to a simmer and allow the sauce to cook for 2-3 minutes. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Here are some extra tips to ensure the best results when making this dish. It's a good idea to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta, as it can be used to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
You can season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for added flavor, though the pesto and Parmesan typically provide sufficient seasoning. For a fresh touch, consider garnishing the finished dish with chopped fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
Cooking Steps
Get ready to whip up a delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta by starting with boiling your fettuccine until it's perfectly al dente, just the way you like it.
While the pasta cooks, sauté diced chicken in a skillet until it's golden and juicy, then stir in the basil pesto and heavy cream, creating a rich and aromatic sauce.
Finally, toss the al dente pasta in this creamy goodness, and don't forget to melt in some Parmesan cheese for that irresistible, cheesy finish!
Step 1. Boil Fettuccine Until Al Dente
Boiling fettuccine until al dente is a crucial step in achieving the perfect texture for your pasta dish.
You'll want to bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the fettuccine. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.
Cook the pasta for about 10-12 minutes, but start checking for doneness a little early. You're aiming for that delightful balance where the pasta is firm yet tender, offering just a hint of resistance when you bite into it.
This texture will hold up beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce, ensuring each strand is perfectly coated.
Once done, drain the fettuccine, but don't forget to reserve some of the pasta water—it's a handy trick to adjust your sauce's consistency later.
Step 2. Sauté Chicken Until Golden
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring it's hot before adding the chicken. This step is crucial, as it helps you achieve that perfect golden brown color on your chicken pieces.
Once the skillet is ready, add the diced chicken, spreading it out in a single layer. Let the pieces sizzle and sear, resisting the urge to stir frequently. Give them a couple of minutes to develop a rich, golden crust.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for an extra burst of flavor. As the chicken cooks, you'll notice the kitchen filling with delicious aromas that heighten the anticipation of the meal to come.
Once golden and cooked through, the chicken is ready for the next step.
Step 3. Mix Pesto and Cream
Once your chicken is perfectly golden, it's time to mix in the pesto and cream to create a luscious sauce.
With a sense of excitement, pour the vibrant pesto into the skillet, letting its aroma fill your kitchen. Stir gently, watching as the rich green color envelops the chicken.
Next, add the heavy cream, and watch with delight as it melds with the pesto, forming a silky, mouthwatering sauce. Stir continuously to ensure the cream and pesto are evenly combined.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to deepen and marry beautifully. This step is crucial, as it helps the sauce thicken slightly while infusing the chicken with basil goodness, ready for the next delicious phase.
Step 4. Toss Pasta With Sauce
With the pesto cream sauce now perfectly melded, it's time to bring the pasta into the mix.
Pour your cooked fettuccine directly into the skillet, allowing the pasta to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Use tongs or a pasta fork to gently toss everything together, ensuring each strand is coated in the creamy, vibrant pesto.
Don't rush this step; let the pasta dance with the sauce, absorbing its rich flavors. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up, creating a silky, smooth consistency.
Feel the excitement as the fragrance of basil and garlic fills the air, promising a delightful meal ahead. Enjoy this delicious blend!
Step 5. Melt Parmesan Into Sauce
Now comes the delightful step of melting the Parmesan into your pesto cream sauce. This is where the magic happens, transforming your dish into a creamy, cheesy delight.
Gently sprinkle the grated Parmesan over your simmering pesto and cream mixture. Stir slowly but consistently, watching as the cheese melts and blends seamlessly into the sauce. The warmth will help the Parmesan dissolve, creating a silky texture that clings beautifully to each pasta strand.
If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. As the cheese melts, it infuses the sauce with its rich, nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
You'll find this step brings everything together deliciously, making your pasta truly irresistible.
Final Thoughts
Aromatic basil and creamy textures make this Pesto Chicken Pasta a delightful choice for dinner.
You'll love how the rich flavors meld together, creating a dish that's both satisfying and simple to prepare.
With just five ingredients, it's perfect for busy weeknights or when you're hosting friends.
The pesto adds a vibrant green touch, while the tender chicken and creamy sauce create a comforting meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Did you know that there are over 600 types of pasta? You can definitely switch it up!
Using a different type of pasta can add a new twist to your dish. Try penne or farfalle for a fun change, as they hold the sauce well.
Just make sure to cook it al dente for the perfect texture. The excitement of experimenting with different shapes keeps your meals interesting and delicious!
Is There a Substitute for Heavy Cream?
You can definitely substitute heavy cream with several options!
Try using half-and-half for a lighter version, or opt for coconut milk if you want a dairy-free alternative.
Greek yogurt is another great choice, adding a tangy twist while keeping it creamy. Just mix it in slowly to avoid curdling.
These swaps still create a creamy, delicious dish, letting you enjoy the rich flavors without missing out on texture or taste!
Enjoy cooking!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Imagine transforming this dish into a vegetarian delight, bursting with vibrant flavors!
Swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These veggies soak up the creamy pesto sauce, creating a symphony of taste and texture.
You'll savor each bite, knowing you've crafted a meal that's both satisfying and meat-free.
Don't hesitate, dive into this culinary adventure and enjoy every delicious moment you create!
What Wine Pairs Well With This Pasta?
Pairing wine with your pasta? You can't go wrong with a crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc! Its bright acidity cuts through the creamy sauce, enhancing the basil pesto's fresh flavors.
If you prefer red, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir, which complements the dish without overpowering it. Both choices elevate your meal, inviting delightful contrasts and harmonies on your palate.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, swap the fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
You'll find plenty of tasty options, like rice or corn-based pasta, at most grocery stores. Cook it just like regular pasta, ensuring it's al dente for the perfect texture.
Additionally, double-check that your pesto is gluten-free, as some brands might include gluten-containing ingredients.
With these simple tweaks, you can enjoy a delicious, gluten-free meal!
