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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta: A Cozy Comfort Food Winner

Delight in this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, a warm and hearty dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 570

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta (penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or ziti) Gluten-free options are available.
For the Chicken
  • 2 medium Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Rotisserie or leftover chicken can be used.
For Sautéing
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil For flavor enhancement.
  • Salt and Pepper To taste.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter Forms the base of the sauce.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
  • 3/4 cup Heavy cream Creates a creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup Whole milk Balances richness.
  • 1/2 cup Basil pesto Homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Enhances creaminess.
Optional Ingredients
  • 3.5 ounces Baby spinach Can be replaced with sautéed mushrooms.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded For topping.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • baking dish
  • Colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta in salted water for 2 minutes less than package instructions, then drain.
  3. Sauté chicken in olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, until golden brown on both sides.
  4. Make the sauce by melting butter, adding garlic, then heavy cream and milk until thickened, and stir in pesto and parmesan.
  5. Combine the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and spinach in the creamy sauce.
  6. Transfer mixture to the baking dish, top with mozzarella and remaining parmesan.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 570kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 34gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 820mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

You can adjust ingredients to cater to dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

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