A creamy, comforting pasta featuring tender chicken, basil pesto, and Parmesan cheese. This easy dish comes together quickly and delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or fettuccine)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or extra cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the water, then drain and set aside.
-
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in oil or butter over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice.
-
Lower heat to medium. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
-
Stir in cream and pesto. Simmer for a few minutes.
-
Add Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Let melt into a smooth sauce.
-
Add pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat.
-
Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
-
Taste and serve with garnishes.