A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring seared chicken, basil pesto, and Parmesan cheese. This comforting recipe comes together easily and delivers bold, herbaceous flavor in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
2 cloves garlic, 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 additional Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup cooking water, drain, and set aside.
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Season chicken and cook in oil or butter until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side. Set aside.
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In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
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Add cream and stir to deglaze the pan. Bring to a simmer.
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Mix in pesto and Parmesan. Simmer until smooth and slightly thickened.
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Slice cooked chicken and return to the pan. Add pasta and toss to coat.
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Use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce.
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Season to taste and serve with desired toppings.