Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Let me introduce you to my Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne, a dish that's full of flavor and easy to make. With tender penne pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy pesto sauce, this recipe will become a family favorite. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a delightful meal that looks gourmet but comes together in no time. Let's dive into the deliciousness!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: This recipe combines rich heavy cream and fresh basil pesto to create a sauce that is irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup, making this recipe both convenient and efficient.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this dish your own while keeping the creamy goodness intact.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Let's dive into these tasty ingredients. First, you need penne pasta. It has a nice shape that holds the sauce well. Chicken breast adds protein and makes the dish hearty. Heavy cream brings a rich and creamy texture to the sauce. The prepared basil pesto is key for flavor; it gives your dish a fresh taste.
Cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness. Olive oil helps to cook the chicken and adds a bit of richness. Minced garlic is essential for depth and aroma. If you like a little heat, consider red pepper flakes. Salt and pepper are must-haves to enhance all the flavors. Finally, the grated Parmesan cheese is perfect for serving, and fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish.
Each ingredient plays a role in making creamy pesto chicken penne a delightful meal. Enjoy the cooking process, and don't forget to taste as you go!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Make sure to add salt to the water. This step is key because it flavors the pasta as it cooks. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sautéing the Chicken
Next, heat up a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up. When the oil is hot, add the diced chicken. To get that nice golden color, do not overcrowd the pan. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until it is fully cooked and golden brown.
Making the Creamy Sauce
After the chicken is done, add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook the garlic for just one minute. This brief cooking time helps keep the garlic from burning. Then, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Add the basil pesto next. Stir the mix gently until everything is combined. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
Combining Ingredients
Now it's time to bring everything together! Add the cooked penne pasta and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Toss the mixture well to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Make sure to heat everything together for another 2-3 minutes. This final step blends all the flavors and warms the dish nicely.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Your Dish
To make your creamy pesto chicken penne even better, you can adjust the seasoning. If you love bold flavors, add more pesto or some lemon juice. This will give the dish a fresh kick. For a savory touch, sprinkle in more Parmesan cheese.
Cooking tips matter too. Start with a hot skillet for the chicken. This helps to get that nice golden color. Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s just done. Overcooking can make it tough. When adding the garlic, stir it for only a minute. This keeps the garlic from burning and turning bitter.
Serving Suggestions
When serving creamy pesto chicken penne, consider pairing it with garlic bread or a light salad. Both add a nice balance to the rich pasta.
For presentation, use deep bowls. Twirl the penne with a fork for a nice look. Top each serving with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. This not only looks great but also adds flavor. A drizzle of olive oil on top can make it shine.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Pesto: For the best flavor, use fresh basil pesto instead of store-bought. It enhances the dish with vibrant taste.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken to ensure it browns evenly and remains juicy.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute half-and-half for a less rich option.
- Garnishing Tip: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish just before serving to elevate the flavors and add brightness.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Instead of chicken, use chickpeas or tofu. Both options add protein and flavor.
For vegetables, try adding:
- Spinach
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Broccoli
These veggies bring color and taste. They also add nutrition to your meal.
Different Sauce Flavors
Pesto sauce can change the whole dish. Try different flavors for fun. You might like sun-dried tomato pesto or roasted red pepper pesto. Each brings a unique taste.
If you want a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream with:
- Coconut milk
- Greek yogurt
These options keep the dish rich but lighter. You can enjoy creamy pesto chicken penne in many ways!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your creamy pesto chicken penne fresh, store leftovers properly. First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss. For best results, refrigerate it within two hours of cooking.
Make sure to use a container that seals well. Glass containers work great, as they do not stain or retain smells. If you prefer plastic, choose BPA-free options that can handle heat.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to enjoy your creamy pesto chicken penne again, use gentle reheating methods. The stovetop is best. Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or water to keep it moist. Stir often to avoid burning.
If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, about 30 seconds at a time. Stir between intervals to ensure even heating.
Aim for a reheating time of about 4-6 minutes total. Check that the dish is heated through before serving. This keeps the flavors intact and the texture delightful.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can! While penne is great, many shapes work well. Consider using:
- Fusilli for a fun twist.
- Farfalle for a pretty presentation.
- Spaghetti for a classic feel.
- Rigatoni, which holds sauce well.
Each shape offers a unique bite and texture. Feel free to experiment!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Here are some tips:
- Cook the pasta and chicken, then cool them quickly.
- Store them separately in airtight containers.
- Mix the sauce just before serving to keep it fresh.
You can keep everything in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Want to boost the taste? Here are some ideas:
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Sprinkle in some lemon zest for brightness.
- Toss in spinach or arugula for a pop of color.
- Try pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
These extras can elevate your creamy pesto chicken penne. Enjoy the new flavors!
This blog post shared a simple recipe for a creamy chicken penne dish. You learned about key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips to elevate your meal. I also covered variations and storage methods to keep your leftovers fresh.
In conclusion, cooking can be fun and rewarding. With just a few easy steps, you can impress your family and friends. Don't hesitate to try new ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey!
