Print

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A rich and flavorful pasta dish combining tender chicken and creamy basil pesto sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 10.5 ounces total), 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

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your pasta for 2 minutes less than the package instructions indicate. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until cooked through and golden, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk, and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing to thicken slightly over 2-3 minutes.
  6. Mix in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan, stirring until smooth and melted.
  7. Return the chicken and drained pasta to the skillet (add spinach if using), tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
  8. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan on top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  10. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use high-quality pesto for the best flavor. This dish can be made ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Find it online: https://www.mubrecipes.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-pasta/