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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a dish that encapsulates the essence of comfort food while elevating your dining experience with its vibrant flavors and rich textures. This recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious creamy pesto sauce that promises to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you are preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its delightful balance of freshness and indulgence.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Discover the delightful taste of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, a dish that perfectly balances comfort and indulgence. This recipe features tender chicken and pasta enveloped in a luscious creamy pesto sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan. Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining, it's easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Embrace fresh flavors and enjoy a nourishing meal that guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Cooking this dish is a journey worth savoring!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups fresh spinach

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

    Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

      Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cream begins to thicken.

        Combine with Pesto: Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

          Add Vegetables and Pasta: Toss in the cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach into the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta with the creamy pesto sauce.

            Serve: Plate the pasta and top with sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings