Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Delightful Weeknight Dish

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To make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, gather these simple ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture to your dish. - 2 cups penne pasta - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade) - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish These ingredients come together to create a creamy and rich meal. The penne pasta holds the sauce well. Chicken adds protein and heartiness. Cream cheese and heavy cream make the sauce smooth and rich. Basil pesto brings a fresh herbal taste. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. Parmesan cheese gives a nice salty kick. Fresh basil leaves brighten the dish. You can find the full recipe above to guide you through preparing this dish. Enjoy cooking! Start with 2 cups of penne pasta. Boil water in a big pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Cook the pasta until it's tender but still firm, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This step is key to a great dish. Take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The chicken should turn golden brown and cook through. Lower the heat and add 1 cup of softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir it until it melts completely. Then, slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth. This creamy base is what makes the dish special. Next, add 1 cup of basil pesto. Stir for about 2 minutes until everything is heated. Now, you can gently fold in the cooked penne pasta. Add in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes too. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. This is where the flavors blend together beautifully. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Mix gently to combine everything. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat. This helps all the flavors meld together. Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves. For the full recipe, check out the details above! When you pick pesto, think about flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own. Fresh basil pesto gives a bright taste. If you choose store-bought, look for a brand that uses quality ingredients. A good pesto should smell fresh and vibrant. Always taste it first. This helps you know how much to add. You want the flavor to shine in your dish. Want to make your dish pop? Add some extra ingredients! Sun-dried tomatoes bring a rich taste. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Grilled zucchini or bell peppers add sweetness. You can also toss in some crushed red pepper for heat. These ingredients make your meal unique and fun. Mix and match based on your likes. Let your creativity flow while cooking! Texture matters in pasta. You want it creamy but not too thick. Start with quality cream cheese and heavy cream. They blend easily for a smooth sauce. After adding the pasta, stir gently. This keeps the penne intact. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water. This helps the sauce coat every piece. Aim for a balance that feels creamy but light on the palate. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures! {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish meat-free. Simply swap the chicken for veggies. Use mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These add great flavor and texture. You can also add extra spinach for a nutrient boost. Just sauté the vegetables in olive oil until tender. Then follow the same steps to make the creamy sauce. Your vegetarian creamy pesto pasta will taste amazing! While penne pasta works well, feel free to try other shapes. Fusilli or rotini can add fun twists. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. These options keep the taste delicious while fitting your diet. Just remember to cook them according to the package instructions. If you want to change up the protein, there are many choices. Shrimp or scallops can create a seafood twist. They cook quickly and add a nice flavor. You could also use tofu for a plant-based option. Just cube it and sauté until golden. Each protein brings a unique taste to the creamy chicken pesto pasta. For more ideas, check out the full recipe. You can store any leftover Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This way, it stays fresh for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, check for any changes in smell or texture before reheating. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can stay good in the freezer for up to two months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. For the stove, add a splash of water or cream to avoid drying out. Heat it gently over low heat until warm. This keeps the creamy texture just right. Enjoy your delicious meal again! You can make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead in a few easy steps. First, cook the pasta and chicken as usual. Then, make the sauce and mix everything together. Let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. When you're ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of cream can help keep it creamy. This method saves time during busy weeknights. Yes, you can use many pasta types. Penne works well, but feel free to use rotini, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. The key is to cook it until al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Different shapes may change the dish's look and texture but will taste just as good. If you want to swap out cream cheese, try mascarpone or Greek yogurt. These options keep the dish creamy and rich. You can also use ricotta cheese for a lighter texture. Adjust the amount to your taste. Each choice will add a unique flavor twist to the sauce. You can store Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in the fridge for about three days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing. When you're ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Pair your pasta with fresh salads or garlic bread. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve roasted vegetables on the side for extra flavor. Another great option is a light soup, like minestrone. These sides complement the creamy pasta and add balance to your meal. Check out the Full Recipe for a delicious experience! This blog covered how to make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta from start to finish. We explored each ingredient and shared steps to create a rich sauce. I provided tips for flavor and texture, as well as variations for different diets. Storage info helps you keep it fresh for later. I hope you feel ready to try this dish. It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy making it your own!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re looking for a simple, tasty dinner, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is the answer. This dish combines tender chicken, smooth cream, and fresh basil pesto for a weeknight meal that thrills your taste buds. With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this delightful pasta dish in no time. Ready to make a weeknight favorite? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

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Ingredients

To make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, gather these simple ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture to your dish.

– 2 cups penne pasta

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a creamy and rich meal. The penne pasta holds the sauce well. Chicken adds protein and heartiness. Cream cheese and heavy cream make the sauce smooth and rich. Basil pesto brings a fresh herbal taste. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. Parmesan cheese gives a nice salty kick. Fresh basil leaves brighten the dish.

You can find the full recipe above to guide you through preparing this dish. Enjoy cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start with 2 cups of penne pasta. Boil water in a big pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Cook the pasta until it’s tender but still firm, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This step is key to a great dish.

Preparing the Chicken

Take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The chicken should turn golden brown and cook through.

Making the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and add 1 cup of softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir it until it melts completely. Then, slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth. This creamy base is what makes the dish special. Next, add 1 cup of basil pesto. Stir for about 2 minutes until everything is heated.

Combining Ingredients

Now, you can gently fold in the cooked penne pasta. Add in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes too. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. This is where the flavors blend together beautifully.

Final Cooking Steps

Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Mix gently to combine everything. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat. This helps all the flavors meld together. Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves. For the full recipe, check out the details above!

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Right Pesto

When you pick pesto, think about flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own. Fresh basil pesto gives a bright taste. If you choose store-bought, look for a brand that uses quality ingredients. A good pesto should smell fresh and vibrant. Always taste it first. This helps you know how much to add. You want the flavor to shine in your dish.

Enhancing Flavor with Extra Ingredients

Want to make your dish pop? Add some extra ingredients! Sun-dried tomatoes bring a rich taste. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Grilled zucchini or bell peppers add sweetness. You can also toss in some crushed red pepper for heat. These ingredients make your meal unique and fun. Mix and match based on your likes. Let your creativity flow while cooking!

Ensuring Perfect Texture

Texture matters in pasta. You want it creamy but not too thick. Start with quality cream cheese and heavy cream. They blend easily for a smooth sauce. After adding the pasta, stir gently. This keeps the penne intact. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water. This helps the sauce coat every piece. Aim for a balance that feels creamy but light on the palate. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures!

Variations

Vegetarian Option

You can easily make this dish meat-free. Simply swap the chicken for veggies. Use mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These add great flavor and texture. You can also add extra spinach for a nutrient boost. Just sauté the vegetables in olive oil until tender. Then follow the same steps to make the creamy sauce. Your vegetarian creamy pesto pasta will taste amazing!

Alternative Pasta Choices

While penne pasta works well, feel free to try other shapes. Fusilli or rotini can add fun twists. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. These options keep the taste delicious while fitting your diet. Just remember to cook them according to the package instructions.

Different Protein Options

If you want to change up the protein, there are many choices. Shrimp or scallops can create a seafood twist. They cook quickly and add a nice flavor. You could also use tofu for a plant-based option. Just cube it and sauté until golden. Each protein brings a unique taste to the creamy chicken pesto pasta. For more ideas, check out the full recipe.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

You can store any leftover Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This way, it stays fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, check for any changes in smell or texture before reheating.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can stay good in the freezer for up to two months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. For the stove, add a splash of water or cream to avoid drying out. Heat it gently over low heat until warm. This keeps the creamy texture just right. Enjoy your delicious meal again!

FAQs

How can I make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?

You can make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead in a few easy steps. First, cook the pasta and chicken as usual. Then, make the sauce and mix everything together. Let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of cream can help keep it creamy. This method saves time during busy weeknights.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use many pasta types. Penne works well, but feel free to use rotini, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. The key is to cook it until al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Different shapes may change the dish’s look and texture but will taste just as good.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you want to swap out cream cheese, try mascarpone or Greek yogurt. These options keep the dish creamy and rich. You can also use ricotta cheese for a lighter texture. Adjust the amount to your taste. Each choice will add a unique flavor twist to the sauce.

How long can Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta be stored?

You can store Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in the fridge for about three days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this pasta?

Pair your pasta with fresh salads or garlic bread. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve roasted vegetables on the side for extra flavor. Another great option is a light soup, like minestrone. These sides complement the creamy pasta and add balance to your meal. Check out the Full Recipe for a delicious experience!

This blog covered how to make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta from start to finish. We explored each ingredient and shared steps to create a rich sauce. I provided tips for flavor and texture, as well as variations for different diets. Storage info helps you keep it fresh for later. I hope you feel ready to try this dish. It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy making it your own!

To make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, gather these simple ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture to your dish. - 2 cups penne pasta - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade) - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish These ingredients come together to create a creamy and rich meal. The penne pasta holds the sauce well. Chicken adds protein and heartiness. Cream cheese and heavy cream make the sauce smooth and rich. Basil pesto brings a fresh herbal taste. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. Parmesan cheese gives a nice salty kick. Fresh basil leaves brighten the dish. You can find the full recipe above to guide you through preparing this dish. Enjoy cooking! Start with 2 cups of penne pasta. Boil water in a big pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Cook the pasta until it's tender but still firm, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This step is key to a great dish. Take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The chicken should turn golden brown and cook through. Lower the heat and add 1 cup of softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir it until it melts completely. Then, slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth. This creamy base is what makes the dish special. Next, add 1 cup of basil pesto. Stir for about 2 minutes until everything is heated. Now, you can gently fold in the cooked penne pasta. Add in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes too. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. This is where the flavors blend together beautifully. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Mix gently to combine everything. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat. This helps all the flavors meld together. Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves. For the full recipe, check out the details above! When you pick pesto, think about flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own. Fresh basil pesto gives a bright taste. If you choose store-bought, look for a brand that uses quality ingredients. A good pesto should smell fresh and vibrant. Always taste it first. This helps you know how much to add. You want the flavor to shine in your dish. Want to make your dish pop? Add some extra ingredients! Sun-dried tomatoes bring a rich taste. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Grilled zucchini or bell peppers add sweetness. You can also toss in some crushed red pepper for heat. These ingredients make your meal unique and fun. Mix and match based on your likes. Let your creativity flow while cooking! Texture matters in pasta. You want it creamy but not too thick. Start with quality cream cheese and heavy cream. They blend easily for a smooth sauce. After adding the pasta, stir gently. This keeps the penne intact. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water. This helps the sauce coat every piece. Aim for a balance that feels creamy but light on the palate. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures! {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish meat-free. Simply swap the chicken for veggies. Use mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These add great flavor and texture. You can also add extra spinach for a nutrient boost. Just sauté the vegetables in olive oil until tender. Then follow the same steps to make the creamy sauce. Your vegetarian creamy pesto pasta will taste amazing! While penne pasta works well, feel free to try other shapes. Fusilli or rotini can add fun twists. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. These options keep the taste delicious while fitting your diet. Just remember to cook them according to the package instructions. If you want to change up the protein, there are many choices. Shrimp or scallops can create a seafood twist. They cook quickly and add a nice flavor. You could also use tofu for a plant-based option. Just cube it and sauté until golden. Each protein brings a unique taste to the creamy chicken pesto pasta. For more ideas, check out the full recipe. You can store any leftover Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This way, it stays fresh for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, check for any changes in smell or texture before reheating. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can stay good in the freezer for up to two months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. For the stove, add a splash of water or cream to avoid drying out. Heat it gently over low heat until warm. This keeps the creamy texture just right. Enjoy your delicious meal again! You can make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead in a few easy steps. First, cook the pasta and chicken as usual. Then, make the sauce and mix everything together. Let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. When you're ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of cream can help keep it creamy. This method saves time during busy weeknights. Yes, you can use many pasta types. Penne works well, but feel free to use rotini, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. The key is to cook it until al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Different shapes may change the dish's look and texture but will taste just as good. If you want to swap out cream cheese, try mascarpone or Greek yogurt. These options keep the dish creamy and rich. You can also use ricotta cheese for a lighter texture. Adjust the amount to your taste. Each choice will add a unique flavor twist to the sauce. You can store Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in the fridge for about three days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing. When you're ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Pair your pasta with fresh salads or garlic bread. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve roasted vegetables on the side for extra flavor. Another great option is a light soup, like minestrone. These sides complement the creamy pasta and add balance to your meal. Check out the Full Recipe for a delicious experience! This blog covered how to make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta from start to finish. We explored each ingredient and shared steps to create a rich sauce. I provided tips for flavor and texture, as well as variations for different diets. Storage info helps you keep it fresh for later. I hope you feel ready to try this dish. It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy making it your own!

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Elevate your dinner game with this delicious creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe! Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish features tender chicken, rich cream, and zesty basil pesto all tossed with penne and cherry tomatoes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy get-together. Click through to discover the full recipe and indulge in a bowl of creamy goodness tonight!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

      Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet with the chicken, stirring until it melts and becomes creamy.

        Slowly pour in the heavy cream and continue to stir until well combined with the cream cheese.

          Add the basil pesto to the skillet, bringing everything together into a creamy sauce. Stir for about 2 minutes to ensure it's heated through.

            Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta and cherry tomatoes until they are evenly coated in the sauce.

              Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and mix gently to combine all flavors.

                Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until everything is heated through and creamy.

                  Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

                    Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4

                      WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?