Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne Tasty and Simple Meal

Are you ready for a quick and tasty dinner? My Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne is simple to make and rich in flavor. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal your whole family will love. Follow my easy step-by-step guide, and you'll have dinner ready in no time. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of creamy pesto!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 2 cups penne pasta

- 1 lb chicken breast, diced

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1/2 cup basil pesto, store-bought or homemade

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

- Fresh basil leaves for a fragrant garnish

Cooking Essentials

You will need a large pot for boiling pasta. A large skillet works best for cooking chicken and making sauce. Use a colander to drain the pasta. Tongs help mix the pasta and sauce. Lastly, a good knife and cutting board are key for prepping ingredients.

Optional Ingredients and Garnishes

Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can switch the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist. For a little more heat, toss in more red pepper flakes. Top your dish with a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt for flavor. Once the water boils, add 2 cups of penne pasta. Cook it for about 10-12 minutes until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Keep a small cup of pasta water; it can help later.

Sautéing the Chicken

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers. Then, add 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Season it with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you like heat. Cook for about 6-8 minutes. Stir often, so the chicken cooks evenly and turns golden brown.

Preparing the Creamy Sauce

Once the chicken is done, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until the garlic smells good. Lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir while adding 1/2 cup of basil pesto. Mix until everything is well combined. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This makes the sauce thicker and creamy.

Combining the Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Add the drained penne pasta and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together using tongs. This ensures the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If it’s too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Heat everything for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your creamy pesto chicken penne!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Creamy Pesto Sauce

To make a rich creamy pesto sauce, start with quality ingredients. Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor. If you go with store-bought, choose a brand with few additives. Combine the heavy cream with the pesto over low heat. Stir well to mix them. This helps the flavors meld together. Simmer it gently for a few minutes to thicken. If it seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. This keeps the sauce creamy and smooth.

Achieving the Right Pasta Texture

Cooking penne pasta just right is key. Follow the package instructions but aim for al dente. This means the pasta should be firm when bitten. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Remember to salt the boiling water well; it enhances the pasta's flavor. After draining, do not rinse the pasta. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling.

Seasoning Recommendations

Seasoning boosts the dish's overall taste. Use salt and freshly ground black pepper to brighten flavors. Adding red pepper flakes gives a nice heat if you enjoy spice. Taste as you go. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. For finishing touches, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Fresh basil leaves also add a lovely aroma and color. These simple steps will elevate your creamy pesto chicken penne.

Variations

Vegetarian-Friendly Alternatives

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap the chicken for sliced mushrooms or diced zucchini. Both options add flavor and texture. You can also use firm tofu for protein. Just sauté it until golden. For extra greens, toss in spinach or kale at the end. These will wilt nicely in the warm sauce.

Adjustable Spice Levels

If you enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes. Start with a little and taste as you go. You can also use a spicy pesto if you want more kick. On the other hand, if you prefer mild flavors, skip the red pepper flakes. You can even use sweet basil pesto for a gentle taste.

Using Different Protein Options

You don’t have to stick with chicken. Shrimp or scallops work great here too. Just cook them until they turn pink, then follow the same steps. For a cozy twist, try cooked sausage or ground turkey. Each protein gives a unique flavor to the creamy pesto sauce.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you have a lot, divide it into smaller portions. This makes it easy to reheat just what you need.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating creamy pesto chicken penne is easy. Use a microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place the pasta in a bowl, add a splash of water, and cover. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. For stovetop, heat in a skillet over low heat. Stir in a bit of cream or pasta water to maintain creaminess.

Freezing Tips

You can freeze this dish for longer storage. Let it cool completely, then use a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce. This keeps every bite as tasty as the first!

FAQs

What is the best type of pesto to use?

The best pesto is fresh basil pesto. You can buy it or make it at home. Store-bought pesto is easy and saves time. Homemade pesto is vibrant and full of flavor. Use high-quality ingredients for the best taste.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream as a substitute. Each option changes the flavor and texture a bit. If you want a lighter dish, use low-fat milk. This will make it less creamy, but still delicious.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Cook the pasta and chicken early in the day. Store them separately in the fridge. Make the sauce when you're ready to serve. Combine everything just before eating. This keeps the pasta firm and the dish fresh.

This blog post covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. You learned how to make a delicious creamy pesto chicken pasta. We discussed variations to suit your taste, like vegetarian options and spice levels. Storage tips help keep your leftovers fresh.

Cooking can be fun and rewarding. Try this recipe and make it your own! Enjoy the flavors and share your creations with friends and family.