Welcome to Homely Recipes! Today, we’re diving into a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that will become your next weeknight favorite: pesto chicken. Whether you’re craving a classic chicken pesto pasta, creamy variations, or even a simple pesto pasta, this recipe has you covered.
With vibrant basil pesto, tender chicken, and delicious pasta, this dish provides a rich, savory meal for any occasion. We’ll even show you how to take your pesto chicken to the next level by incorporating creamy elements or using pesto paste pasta for an even richer flavor.
If you’re a fan of indulgent sauces like fettuccine chicken Alfredo, this recipe is perfect for you, too, as it shares a similar creamy goodness but with a pesto twist. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Learn:
- How to make chicken pesto pasta
- How to create creamy pesto chicken pasta
- How to use pesto paste pasta for a richer flavor
- Tips for making variations like fettuccine chicken Alfredo sauce with a pesto twist
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for creamy pesto)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your preferred pasta according to the instructions on the package until al dente. For this recipe, we recommend using spaghetti, penne, or even fettuccine for that fettuccine chicken Alfredo sauce feel. Make sure the pasta is al dente, as it will absorb the pesto and other flavors later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a spacious skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Pesto Sauce
If necessary, drizzle in a bit more olive oil into the skillet. Cook the minced garlic in the skillet until it becomes fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Then, stir in 3 tablespoons of pesto sauce. For a creamy pesto chicken pasta, this is the moment to add your cup of heavy cream. Stir the mixture until it becomes a smooth, rich sauce.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the pesto sauce for about 3 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
For a final touch, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This step will give your chicken pesto pasta a salty, cheesy richness that perfectly complements the bright, herbaceous flavors of the pesto.
Pesto Paste Pasta: How to Make It Even Better
For those looking to elevate their dish further, consider making pesto paste pasta. By using a thicker pesto paste, you can intensify the basil, garlic, and Parmesan flavors in the dish. It works particularly well in creamy sauces or as a base for a pesto fettuccine chicken Alfredo sauce.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Pesto paste: This is a thicker, more concentrated version of traditional pesto. You can use a store-bought paste or reduce your homemade pesto sauce by simmering it until it thickens.
- Use less paste than you would with pesto sauce, as it packs a punch. About 2 tablespoons of pesto paste can replace 3 tablespoons of sauce.
- Mix it with heavy cream to create a unique creamy pesto chicken pasta that rivals even the best fettuccine chicken Alfredo sauce.
Variations: Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
If you love creamy sauces like fettuccine chicken Alfredo, this variation is for you. By adding heavy cream to the pesto sauce, you can create a luscious, velvety texture that pairs beautifully with tender chicken and pasta.
This creamy version also works well with fettuccine or pesto paste pasta, adding depth to the dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons pesto sauce (or 2 tablespoons pesto paste)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Follow the original recipe, but after sautéing the garlic, stir in heavy cream along with the pesto sauce.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens, then stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Toss the pasta and chicken into the sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan for a restaurant-quality meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pesto Chicken
- Make your own pesto: While store-bought pesto works fine, making your own fresh basil pesto can elevate the flavors. Blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil for a vibrant, homemade pesto.
- Try different pastas: While spaghetti or fettuccine works well, don’t shy away from penne, rotini, or even gnocchi. Each pasta type brings something different to the table.
- Keep it creamy: If you prefer a creamier texture but don’t want it too rich, add a mix of cream and chicken broth to balance the creaminess.
- Customize your sauce: Add sun-dried tomatoes or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra flavor in your pesto chicken.
Final Thoughts on Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken pesto pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s both delicious and easy to make. Whether you’re keeping it simple with traditional pesto chicken or indulging in a rich, creamy pesto chicken pasta, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. You can even switch things up with pesto paste pasta or combine elements from other classic sauces like fettuccine chicken Alfredo for a unique take on this timeless recipe.
Now that you know how to make this mouth-watering dish, it’s time to put your skills to the test! Share your creations with us on social media using the hashtags #HomelyRecipes and #PestoChickenPasta. We’d love to see your takes on this classic comfort food.