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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

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Indulge in this creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe featuring tender chicken, rich pesto sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. A quick and delicious dish for weeknight dinners!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
  • 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the pesto and heavy cream, mixing until smooth and heated through.
  5. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s well-coated in the sauce.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Garnish with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.
  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

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