Creamy Pesto Parmesan Chicken Pasta features juicy chicken, a rich basil-Parmesan cream sauce, and pasta cooked to perfection. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish ideal for weeknights or relaxed dinner gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil and more cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
-
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
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Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden and done, about 5–6 minutes per side. Rest, then slice.
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In the same pan, cook garlic until fragrant. Add cream and pesto, stirring to combine.
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Simmer sauce for a few minutes, then stir in Parmesan and red pepper flakes.
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Return chicken to the pan, along with pasta. Toss everything together.
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Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency.
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Taste, season as needed, and serve hot with garnish if desired.