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Easy 30-Minute Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

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This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy, tender chicken is tossed with al dente pasta and coated in a creamy, herb-packed pesto sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy version)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish

Instructions

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

  • Cook the chicken:
    While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

  • Add pesto and cream:
    Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the pesto to the skillet with the cooked chicken and stir to coat evenly. For a creamier sauce, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

  • Combine pasta and sauce:
    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

  • Finish and serve:
    Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, fresh basil leaves, and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve warm!

Notes

  • Use grilled or rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version.
  • You can swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.

Find it online: https://recipe.newsvks.com/easy-30-minute-chicken-pesto-pasta-recipe/