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Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken is a dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors and enticing textures, making it a standout meal for any occasion. This delightful recipe brings together the bright, herbal notes of fresh pesto, the satisfying creaminess of a luxurious sauce, and the heartiness of tender chicken, resulting in a comforting dish that appeals to both children and adults alike.

Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken

Dive into the world of flavor with this Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken! This dish brings together fresh basil, savory chicken, and rich cream for a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it's both easy to make and satisfying. Customize it for dietary needs, and enjoy a comforting meal everyone will love. #PastaRecipe #CreamyPesto #ChickenDinner #HomemadeCooking #ComfortFood #EasyRecipes #FoodForThought
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fusilli or penne pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups fresh basil leaves

1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.

      With the food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

        In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of olive oil. Once heated, add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

          Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and the prepared pesto, mixing well to incorporate. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

            Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat all the ingredients in the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

              Serve hot, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes and additional grated Parmesan cheese.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4