Chicken Pesto Pasta

Introduction

Chicken Pesto Pasta – this is one unforgettable pasta with beautifully flavoured tender chicken and a creamy sauce! It is such an easy dish to put together that it makes a great weeknight meal or a special dinner for the ones you love.

Why Make This Recipe

These reasons make it a perfect dish and yes I'm talking about Chicken Pesto Pasta. It took a mere few minutes to make and was bursting with the flavors of summer. AND it is a crowd-pleaser that the whole family will enjoy! Believe me, you will want to make it over and again when you taste this!

Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 c fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
• 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS, cut into 1 inch cubes — 2 POIND
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1-3 twists freshly ground black pepper 2 tsp granulated garlic (the kind you can pour out, not the stuff that forms a paste) or garlic powder
• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 3 c reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. IN a large deep skillet (12-inches), heat 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Place the chicken in and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and granulated garlic.
2. Sauté the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Then add the chicken broth (this is what will cook your pasta) and uncooked pasta to the Instant Pot with chicken Set to medium-high heat and bring it all to a boil.
4. Bring to a rolling boil, lower the heat to medium-low and cover with lid. Cook pasta in chicken broth till al dente. NOTE: Cooking time will vary, refer to directions on package for the same. Stir every now and then to avoid getting stuck.
5. Lower the heat to a simmer, and add in your pasta when it is al dente. Pour the heavy cream and pesto mixture over your linguine. Stir until well mixed.
6. Take it off the stove and add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese along with your pasta stir until melted [in – keeping]. Serve hot!

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta

Pile your Chicken Pesto Pasta in to a big bowl and serve warm. Top with a little excess Parmesan (if desired). Serve it with a side of salad or some delicious garlic bread.

Chicken Pesto Pasta Storage

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container, and kept cold. It will last for about 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or microwave when you are ready to eat again.

Top Tips For Making Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Also a reminder to use fresh basil for the most flavor possible in your pesto!
• Please stir the wrong item to prevent sticking( almost skipped this )
• As ever in this type of recipe, garlic and cheese amounts may vary depending on your taste.

Variation

If you want to add a little more nutrition, throw in some cherry tomatoes and spinach. Swap the chicken for shrimp or plant based protein to mix it up!

FAQs

 

1. Can I use Pesto from a jar, rather than making it? Of course, in a pinch jarred pesto is also time-saving and tastes pretty good!
2. What to serve with Chicken Pesto Pasta? Add a side of garlic bread or green salad and its the perfect meal!
3. How do I make it spicy? Or you can throw in some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!

Chicken Pesto Pasta (These strengths are handling) It's a meal that will have the whole family rolling with smiles or odd faces 🙂. Happy cooking!