Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the aromatic taste of basil pesto. It’s a comforting meal that is not only easy to prepare but also quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family or friends without spending all day in the kitchen. The use of gluten-free bowtie pasta ensures that those with dietary restrictions can enjoy this flavorful dish too!

This recipe brings together simple ingredients that you likely have in your pantry, and it allows for modifications to suit your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to make the cooking process enjoyable and straightforward. It’s a great way to enjoy a creamy sauce without the fuss, while still getting the satisfaction of a homemade meal.

So, why not indulge in Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta? This dish boasts a combination of freshness, creaminess, and a hint of zest that will have you coming back for more. Perfect for family dinners or a casual gathering with friends, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the gluten-free bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken breast to the skillet and sauté it for about 2 minutes. The goal here is to warm up the chicken and give it a bit more flavor from the oil.

3. Add Garlic Powder: Sprinkle in the 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir the mixture to coat the chicken evenly. This will infuse the chicken with a nice garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

4. Stir in Heavy Cream: Lower the heat to medium-low and add 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream begins to simmer. This will create a rich and creamy base for your sauce.

5. Incorporate Pesto: After the cream is simmering, add in the 1/2 cup of basil pesto. Mix it well with the cream and chicken. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

6. Combine Pasta: Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy pesto sauce.

7. Add Cherry Tomatoes: Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, carefully mixing them into the pasta. They will add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

8. Season: Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s important to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preference.

9. Serve: Dish out the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta warm. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Serving Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta can be an opportunity to make your meal feel special. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it:

• Plating: Use a large, shallow bowl or a plate to present the pasta. This allows for a lovely display of colors, with the creaminess of the sauce, the vibrant green from the pesto, and the red from the cherry tomatoes.

• Garnish: Don’t skip on the garnishes! A sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese provides a nice texture and flavor contrast. Fresh basil leaves also add a hint of freshness and elevate the dish’s appearance.

• Pairing with Sides: Consider serving the pasta with a side salad. A simple mix of greens with light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is another fantastic option, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.

• Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta. It complements the richness of the cream and the freshness of the pesto.

• Comfort Food: For a cozy night in, serve the pasta in individual bowls and enjoy it with your favorite movie or book. It’s a perfect comfort food that feels indulgent without the fuss.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Storing Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is quite simple, and it can make for excellent leftovers:

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It should last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

• Freezing Leftovers: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container and make sure to label it with the date. It should be fine for about 2-3 months in the freezer. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cream might change slightly once thawed.

• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of cream or a bit of chicken broth to restore some moisture to the pasta as it reheats.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Making the perfect Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta can be further enhanced with these simple tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Since the flavors of this dish rely heavily on the quality of the ingredients, opt for a good-quality basil pesto and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if possible. Fresh herbs will also elevate the taste significantly.

• Cook the Chicken Properly: If you’re cooking the chicken from scratch, ensure it’s seasoned well and cooked through before shredding or dicing. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper can go a long way.

• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream and pesto based on your preference. For a lighter dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with a lower-fat cream.

• Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional profile of the meal by adding vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can toss them in while sautéing the chicken to soften them slightly.

• Experiment with Different Pasta Shapes: While this recipe uses bowtie pasta, you can easily substitute with other types of pasta. Shapes like penne or fusilli work well too and can provide a unique twist to the dish.

Variations

While Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try:

• Chicken Alternatives: Substitute cooked chicken with other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.

• Noodle Choices: Experiment with different types of pasta—regular or whole grain varieties will also work if gluten is not a concern for you.

• Adding Nuts: Consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunch. They will enhance the texture and add depth to the flavor profile.

• Spice Up the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your pasta. This can really enhance the overall flavor.

• Herbs and Greens: Along with basil, try adding arugula or spinach for a bit of pepperiness and added vitamins. You can stir these in at the end to maintain some of their freshness.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Yes, you can absolutely use regular pasta if gluten is not a concern for you. The cooking time may vary, so be sure to follow the package instructions.

2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is great for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in portioned containers for easy, quick meals throughout the week.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can make a dairy-free version by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and using dairy-free pesto and cheese.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and water) or let it simmer longer on low heat to reduce and thicken.

5. What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the pasta.

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a dish that encapsulates flavor and comfort all in one bowl. With its easy preparation and potential for variations, it’s a perfect addition to any meal rotation. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll likely find it quickly becoming a family favorite!