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+ servings

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

A delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful pasta, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken
  • 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced (about 10.5 ounces total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Toppings
  • 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional) Optional for extra greens
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese For topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than the package directions, ensuring it is just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and sauté until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
  2. Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Mix in the basil pesto and Parmesan, stirring until smooth.
  3. Return the chicken, drained pasta, and spinach (if using) to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
Baking
  1. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella and extra Parmesan over the top.
  2. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  3. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 36gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 16gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3g

Notes

Serve warm, straight from the oven, with a side salad or garlic bread. Looks great with a sprinkle of fresh basil or extra Parmesan on top.

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