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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe Easy Homemade Garlic Parmesan Dish

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A quick and easy creamy pesto chicken pasta with garlic and Parmesan that delivers a comforting, rich, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or preferred shape)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (9-11 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
  4. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup basil pesto. Stir and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Whisk in ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
  6. Slice rested chicken into bite-sized strips. Add chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately warm.

Notes

Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy. Add garlic just before cream to avoid burning. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor. Simmer cream and pesto gently to prevent curdling. Cook pasta and chicken simultaneously to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pesto chicken pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, easy dinner, quick pasta recipe, homemade pesto pasta, chicken pasta recipe, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-pasta-recipe-easy-homemade-garlic-parmesan-dish/