Creamy Pesto Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines juicy chicken, fresh pesto, Parmesan cheese, and pasta in a rich, velvety sauce. A quick and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
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 extra cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the cooking water. Drain pasta and set aside.
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Season chicken and cook in oil or butter for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked. Remove and rest.
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In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
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Pour in cream and stir. Add pesto and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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Add Parmesan and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.
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Slice chicken and return to pan along with pasta. Toss to coat.
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Use reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the sauce.
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Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with desired toppings.