Description
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta features tender chicken and penne tossed in a rich, cheesy pesto cream sauce. This easy 30-minute dinner is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- ½ pound penne pasta (about 2½ cups dry)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half (or milk/cream)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup basil pesto (or more, to taste)
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken. Season with salt and pepper and cook until chicken is browned and no longer pink. Transfer chicken to a plate and discard any excess liquid.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 3 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and half and half. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in pesto, Parmesan, and mozzarella, adding the cheese in small increments and mixing well to prevent clumping.
6. Return cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet and stir to coat evenly in the sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
Optional add-ins include fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, yellow squash, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
Add mozzarella in small handfuls and stir quickly to prevent it from seizing.
If you prefer less cheese, start with half and add more to taste.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 4 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 784kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1082mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 47g
- Cholesterol: 146mg