Description
Comforting and full of flavor, this Pesto Chicken Pasta blends tender shredded chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and a creamy sauce for a pasta dish that’s perfect for busy nights or relaxed gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the shredded chicken and cherry tomatoes for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Reduce the heat, pour in the heavy cream, and stir gently until warmed. Add the pesto and mix until well combined.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your preferred sauce consistency. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
Notes
Using rotisserie chicken can save time on busy nights. Feel free to substitute the protein with shrimp or tofu for a different take. When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: pasta, pesto, chicken, creamy, quick meal