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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 850
A rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh basil pesto, and creamy cheese, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta

Chicken

  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)

Oils and seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper Salt and pepper (to taste)

Dairy

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables

  • 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional)

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions 

  • Cook pasta in salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than package instructions, then drain.
  • Sauté diced chicken in olive oil until cooked and golden, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
  • Melt butter, sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add heavy cream, milk, pesto, and Parmesan. Simmer until slightly thickened.
  • Return chicken, pasta, and spinach to sauce; toss to coat. Transfer to baking dish, top with cheeses, and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
  • Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or additional Parmesan before serving.
Calories: 850kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Chicken, Creamy, Pasta