Indulge your family in the vibrant flavors of Pesto Chicken Penne Pasta, a hearty yet elegant dinner option. Tender chicken, al dente penne, and a creamy pesto sauce come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Packed with basil, garlic, parmesan, and a hint of lemon, this pasta is sure to please every palate. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend family dinner. Whether served with a side salad or crusty garlic bread, this recipe guarantees smiles around the table and seconds for everyone.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh basil for the pesto for the best flavor.
- Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of heavy cream or mascarpone.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully—just add a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Pesto Chicken Penne Pasta
Delicious Pesto Chicken Penne Pasta combines tender chicken, creamy pesto, and penne for a flavorful and family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
- 300g penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Cherry tomatoes or baby spinach (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add basil pesto and heavy cream (if using). Stir until heated through, then add the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice for extra zest.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach for color. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Adjust the creaminess by skipping the heavy cream for a lighter version.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 487Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 16gCholesterol 90mgSodium 344mgCarbohydrates 30gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 28g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
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