Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta features penne pasta smothered in a buttery cream sauce infused with basil pesto, and juicy chicken. It’s indulgent but not ridiculously rich and is ready in 30 minutes.

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Keyword chicken pesto pasta, creamy chicken pesto pasta

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings SERVINGS

Calories 935kcal

Author Maria Doss

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 to 3 chicken thighs boneless & skinless, cut into bit size chunks
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves chopped
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1 cup chicken stock I used 33% reduced sodium
¾ cup half & half
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or taste
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup basil pesto
½ cup parmesan cheese
8 ounces penne cooked

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add chicken in a single layer, season with salt and pepper. Cook stirring occasionally until almost cooked. Transfer to a bowl,
Pro tip: Searing the chicken in high heat, triggers the cascade of chemical reactions known as Maillard reaction. It increases the savoriness, adds complexity and a depth of flavor.
Reduce heat to medium, add butter, chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally until translucent. Stir in flour and saute for about a minute or until raw smell goes off.
Add chicken stock, half & half, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Mix well, continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until sauce comes to a gentle boil and has thickened slightly (about 2 minutes).
Pro tip: Here is a good substitute for half and half - ½ cup whole milk + ¼ cup heavy cream (or) ¼ cup low fat milk+ ½ cup heavy cream.
Add cooked chicken (along with accumulated juices) and pesto. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes for the sauce to thicken. Stir in cooked pasta and parmesan cheese. Mix well and serve.

Video

Notes

Chicken stock - I used 33% reduced sodium chicken stock

Basil Pesto - I used store bought basil pesto from Costco.

Salt - Salt depends on the type of stock and pesto used.

Don't skip red pepper flakes - It adds a wonderful kick to the pasta.

Nutrition