As a lover of Italian cuisine, I’m excited to share with you my favorite recipe for Creamy Chicken Tomato Pasta with Pesto. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it and how to make it!
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe combines the flavors of basil pesto, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken, all wrapped in a creamy sauce. It’s quick, easy, and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta
- Tomatoes:
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Sauce:
- ¼ cup basil pesto
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional:
- Pine nuts for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Roast the Tomatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil and minced garlic. Spread them in a baking dish and roast for about 20 minutes. - Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until it’s done. Remove and slice it thinly. - Cook the Pasta:
Boil a pot of water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the cooked pasta, basil pesto, and heavy cream. Stir gently and bring to a simmer until the pasta is well coated. - Combine Everything:
Add the roasted tomatoes and sliced chicken to the pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Season with extra salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors nicely.
Tips for Customization
- Add Spinach: Stir in some fresh spinach leaves at the end of cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
- Use Different Pasta: Try using fettuccine or bow-tie pasta for a different texture.
- Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A: Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pesto for convenience. However, making your own pesto from scratch can enhance the flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can add variety and nutrients to the dish.Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Tomato Pasta with Pesto!
