Description
A quick and comforting creamy pesto chicken pasta dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: spinach or peas
- Optional: lemon juice and zest
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken, let rest, then slice.
- In the same skillet, combine heavy cream, basil pesto, and reserved pasta water. Simmer gently to thicken.
- Toss sliced chicken with pasta and sauce. Optional: Add spinach or peas.
- Finish with lemon juice, zest, and grated Parmesan before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, serve with toasted pine nuts and a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon and olive oil.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-searing and sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian