Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

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Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting escape that blends familiar flavors into a delightful dish. This recipe stands out because it brings together the robust taste of basil pesto with creamy ingredients, making it both rich in flavor and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this pasta dish is perfect for any occasion. It combines the heartiness of chicken with the lightness of pasta and the freshness of cherry tomatoes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The best part? This recipe is gluten-free, allowing those with dietary restrictions to indulge without worry. Plus, you can whip it up in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. With its simple steps and minimal clean-up, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is as practical as it is delicious.

Let’s dive into how to make this wonderful dish and learn more about its ingredients and tips for serving.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a quick and easy recipe that requires just a few simple steps. With its combination of chicken, pasta, and a silky pesto sauce, you’ll have a complete meal on your table in no time! Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients

To make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups gluten-free bowtie (farfalle) pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta:

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gluten-free bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cooked chicken and sauté it for about 2 minutes. As you stir, sprinkle the garlic powder over the chicken to enhance its flavor.
Create the Creamy Base: Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently until the cream starts to simmer. This will take just a minute or two. Next, add the basil pesto, mixing it well into the cream. Allow this mixture to cook together for about 2-3 minutes.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, making sure the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy pesto sauce. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes to add color and sweetness to the dish.
Season and Garnish: Taste your dish and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves, which will add vibrant color and flavor.
Serve: Serve your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Serving Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is an experience. To make it visually appealing and even more enjoyable, consider the following tips:

Plate Presentation: Use large, shallow bowls or plates to show off the beautiful colors of the dish. Swirl the pasta for a more artistic appearance.
Garnish: Besides the fresh basil leaves, you can sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese and even a drizzle of olive oil on top for extra flavor.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A light white wine could also complement the creamy textures well.
Serving Size: This recipe serves about four people, which is perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. However, you can easily double the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

If you have leftovers, storing Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta correctly will ensure that it remains tasty for your next meal. Here’s how to store it properly:

Let It Cool: Allow the pasta to cool at room temperature before putting it in the refrigerator. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria.
Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It should be good for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or microwave.
Reheating: When reheating, you may want to add a splash of cream or a bit of water to loosen the sauce. Heat it gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Here are some handy tips to make your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta even better:

Chicken Options: You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience, or you can grill or bake your chicken seasoned with your favorite spices for extra flavor.
Pasta Choices: While this recipe uses gluten-free bowtie pasta, you can easily substitute any type of pasta you prefer, such as regular farfalle, penne, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option.
Pesto Options: Store-bought basil pesto works well, but if you have fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, try making your own pesto for a fresher flavor.
Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for added nutrition and color. Just sauté them briefly in the skillet before adding the cream.
Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or a plant-based option like coconut cream.

Variation

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a versatile dish that can easily adapt to different flavors and dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegan Version: Use plant-based chicken alternatives and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. You can use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor.
Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu for a protein boost that suits your taste.
Pesto Alternatives: Consider using sun-dried tomato pesto, roasted red pepper pesto, or even kale pesto for a twist on the traditional flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components of the pasta ahead. Cook the pasta and chicken, and prepare the sauce. When ready to serve, just combine everything and heat it up. It’s best served fresh, but it can still be tasty as leftovers.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The flavors in Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta are kid-friendly, and their fun shapes and colors make it appealing. You can adjust the garlic flavor or the amount of pesto based on your kids’ taste preferences.

What can I replace the gluten-free pasta with?

You can replace gluten-free pasta with regular pasta if you don’t have dietary restrictions. Alternatively, use whole wheat pasta or any type of pasta that you enjoy, such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto is a convenient option and works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a brand that uses high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

How do I make this more flavorful?

To pack more flavor into your pasta, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro along with the basil garnish. You can also consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

With its rich, creamy sauce and wholesome ingredients, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a favorite dish that everyone will love. Give it a try and make a mealtime memory that will keep everyone coming back for more!