Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of pesto with the tender juiciness of chicken breast and creamy pasta, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. This recipe elevates the traditional pesto pasta by incorporating a creamy sauce that gently envelops the pasta and chicken, making every bite a comforting yet fresh experience. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish offers both simplicity and elegance on a plate. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a must-try recipe that delights the taste buds.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 5 oz pasta of your choice (5 oz of uncooked pasta)
- 1 tsp salt for boiling
- 1/2 lb chicken breast (butterflied)
- 1/2 tsp Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/8 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
- 2 oz basil
- 2 tbsp pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves (germ removed)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 oz Parmigiano Reggiano
- 1/4 oz Pecorino Romano
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 oz Parmigiano Reggiano
- 1/4 cup pasta water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup pesto
- Cherry tomatoes (blanched and skinned)
- Arugula (tossed in a little olive oil & balsamic vinegar)
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
- Pasta: Substitute with whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free alternative for dietary preferences.
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture or substitute with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Pine nuts: Substitute with walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds if preferred.
- Heavy cream: Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
- Cheeses: Use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative to the cheeses.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta (Directions)
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken breast. Butterfly the chicken to ensure even cooking, and season it with Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Rub the seasonings thoroughly over the chicken for maximum flavor. Let the chicken marinate while you prepare the other ingredients, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Make the Pesto
In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, and garlic cloves. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until a smooth and creamy pesto forms. Add lemon juice and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning as required and set aside the pesto.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Breast
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt a tablespoon of butter together with a tablespoon of neutral oil. Once heated, add the marinated chicken breast and cook until golden brown on both sides and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
Step 4: Boil the Pasta and Tomatoes
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your choice of pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last few minutes of boiling, add the cherry tomatoes to blanch them. Once cooked, drain the pasta and tomatoes, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
Step 5: Make the Pesto Cream Sauce
In a separate pan, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Gradually add the freshly prepared pesto, Parmigiano Reggiano, and reserved pasta water. Stir the mixture constantly until the sauce thickens into a smooth and creamy consistency. Season with garlic powder to taste.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes into the pesto cream sauce and toss until the pasta is well-coated. Gently fold in the sliced chicken, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Serve topped with fresh arugula tossed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a burst of freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
You can serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta as a standalone dish, showcasing its delightful blend of flavors. Present it in a large serving bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmigiano Reggiano on top and an extra drizzle of olive oil for a touch of richness. This dish is perfect for both casual family dinners and elegant dinner parties.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with a simple mixed green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the pasta. A side of crusty garlic bread or a slice of focaccia also complements the dish well. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which pairs beautifully with the flavors of basil and garlic.
How to Store Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Proper Storage Methods
If you have leftovers, store the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep it for up to three days to maintain its freshness and quality. Before storing, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature to prevent condensation in the container.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. Stir frequently to avoid separation of the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings on medium power, stirring halfway through to evenly distribute heat. While freezing is not recommended for cream-based pastas due to possible separation, you can freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the cooked pasta.
Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain a pleasant texture. Ensure that you do not burn the garlic while making the sauce, as it can lead to a bitter taste. Also, be cautious with seasoning; start with less, and adjust as needed to prevent over-salting the dish.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
Use fresh ingredients for the pesto, such as high-quality extra virgin olive oil, to enhance the overall taste of the dish. Toast the pine nuts lightly before adding them to the pesto for an extra layer of flavor. When cooking the chicken, do not overcrowd the pan to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
Add sliced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an additional depth of flavor and texture. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the pesto or cream sauce. Experiment with different greens, like baby spinach or kale, to incorporate more vegetables into the dish.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and incorporate roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. To make it vegan, substitute the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives and replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh. Opt for gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
FAQs
What Can I Do If the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If the sauce seems too thick or too thin, adjust by adding more pasta water or cream, respectively, to achieve the desired consistency. If the pasta lacks flavor, consider adding a bit more seasoning or lemon juice to enhance the taste.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pesto and cook the chicken up to one day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. This preparation ensures the pasta remains al dente when served.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
If pine nuts are unavailable, replace them with other nuts or seeds as mentioned earlier. If fresh basil is inaccessible, consider using store-bought pesto as a quick alternative. Use rotisserie chicken in place of cooked chicken breasts for a time-saving shortcut.
