Description
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick and delicious dinner featuring tender chicken and al dente pasta tossed in a rich, creamy basil pesto sauce. Topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s a comforting meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
- 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 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
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, milk, and pesto. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked pasta, Parmesan, and spinach (if using). Stir to coat pasta and chicken evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use store-bought or homemade pesto.
- Baby spinach is optional but adds extra nutrients.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian