Description
A rich and creamy pasta dish made with tender chicken, flavorful pesto sauce, and parmesan cheese for a comforting and quick meal.
Ingredients
Units
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- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the pesto sauce and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken for a faster meal.
- Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg