This creamy pesto chicken pasta is a quick and delicious dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. With juicy roasted tomatoes, tender chicken, and a rich, herby pesto sauce, this meal is ready in just 30 minutes. Plus, it makes great leftovers for the next day!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta (bow-tie, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 10 oz grape tomatoes
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt + black pepper
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Preheat the oven to 400ºF (200ºC).
- Toss cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until blistered.
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook chopped onion until slightly caramelized. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the basil pesto, then pour in the heavy whipping cream. Stir gently and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta and roasted tomatoes, stirring to combine. Slice the chicken and toss it into the pasta.
- Serve immediately with grated parmesan on top. Enjoy!
Nutrients (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 550-600 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
This creamy pesto chicken pasta is a crowd-pleaser, full of bold flavors and a creamy texture. Try it out and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal! 🍝😋
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
One of the standout elements of this creamy pesto chicken pasta is its flavor profile. The pesto sauce is the star of the show, offering a fresh and herby base that complements the richness of the cream and the savory flavor of the chicken. The addition of roasted tomatoes enhances the dish with a touch of sweetness and acidity, creating a perfect balance that elevates the overall taste. Combined with the garlic and onion sautéed in olive oil, every bite bursts with deep, comforting flavors.
Healthier Comfort Food
Though this creamy pesto chicken pasta is indulgent, it can also be part of a balanced diet. The chicken breasts provide a high-quality source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The olive oil and heavy cream used in the recipe deliver healthy fats, while the pasta provides carbohydrates that give you lasting energy. Additionally, the roasted tomatoes contribute vitamins and antioxidants, such as vitamin C and lycopene, promoting good health. The overall meal is satisfying but not overly heavy, making it a great choice for dinner without the guilt.
Customizing the Recipe
One of the great things about this creamy pesto chicken pasta is how easily it can be customized to suit various dietary preferences and needs. If you’re looking to make the dish lighter, you can opt for a lighter cream or even swap the pasta for a whole-grain or gluten-free alternative. For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You could also use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein option. For those who prefer more heat, adding red chili flakes to the pesto sauce brings a spicy kick that balances out the creaminess.
The Magic of Roasted Tomatoes
Roasted tomatoes are one of the key ingredients in this dish, and they add a depth of flavor that makes the pasta incredibly satisfying. Roasting the tomatoes caramelizes their natural sugars, bringing out their sweetness while also giving them a slightly smoky taste. The blistered texture of the tomatoes adds contrast to the creamy sauce and pasta, creating a delightful mouthfeel. These tomatoes are not just an accent; they’re an integral part of the dish that elevates the entire experience.
The Importance of Perfectly Cooked Chicken
The chicken in this recipe needs to be perfectly cooked to ensure the dish has the best flavor and texture. Pan-searing the chicken breasts in olive oil gives them a golden-brown exterior, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The seasoning of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper adds depth to the chicken’s flavor, making it a flavorful addition to the pasta. When slicing the chicken to toss into the pasta, it’s important to cut against the grain to ensure the meat stays tender and doesn’t become chewy. This step ensures that each bite of chicken is as enjoyable as the pasta.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
One of the best things about this creamy pesto chicken pasta is how quickly it comes together. With a total cooking time of around 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner option when you’re short on time but still want something that feels special. The roasting of the tomatoes and the cooking of the chicken can be done simultaneously, cutting down on prep time. The pasta can cook while you prepare the other components, so everything comes together smoothly. This dish allows you to serve a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Meal Prep Friendly
This creamy pesto chicken pasta also makes great leftovers, which is perfect for meal prep or busy days ahead. The flavors have time to meld together overnight, so the dish is just as tasty, if not better, the next day. The creamy pesto sauce can be reheated easily, and the pasta will retain its texture if stored properly. Just be sure to keep the pasta and sauce separate from the chicken until ready to reheat to prevent the chicken from becoming overcooked or dry. This makes it a great dish to make in advance and enjoy throughout the week.
Perfect Pairings
Pairing the creamy pesto chicken pasta with the right sides can elevate the meal even further. A simple side salad with fresh greens, such as spinach or arugula, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta. For a heartier side, try serving the pasta with crusty garlic bread, which can be used to soak up any leftover pesto sauce. If you’re in the mood for a light, refreshing drink, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the herby flavors of the pesto and the richness of the cream. Alternatively, a sparkling water with lemon is a great non-alcoholic option that balances the dish’s richness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creamy pesto chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich, herby pesto, tender chicken, and roasted tomatoes in a creamy sauce, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Its quick preparation time makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while its bold flavors and versatility ensure it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a family dinner, a special occasion meal, or a make-ahead dish for lunch the next day, this creamy pesto chicken pasta is a recipe that will become a favorite in your household. Try it today and experience the magic of pesto and chicken in one creamy, delicious dish!