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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a tantalizing dish that embodies the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it a favorite among pasta enthusiasts and casual diners alike. This recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious creamy pesto sauce to create a meal that is as satisfying as it is delicious. The creamy texture of the sauce envelops the pasta, providing a rich mouthfeel that complements the freshness of the pesto, while the chicken adds a hearty protein boost.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the delicious flavors of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, a dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious creamy pesto sauce. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the rich, comforting texture alongside fresh basil and sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Discover how to elevate your meal with customizable ingredients and popular pairings that will impress any guest.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) fettuccine or your pasta of choice

2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Chili flakes, for a hint of heat (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the pesto and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked fettuccine and sautéed chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

          Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If using, fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

            Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of chili flakes, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings