Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne

Creamy pasta dishes have a unique way of bringing comfort and joy to the dinner table. Their rich textures and flavorful profiles make them a staple in many households, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a more festive gathering. One dish that stands out in this category is Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne. This recipe perfectly balances the lusciousness of a creamy sauce with the herbaceous notes of pesto, creating a delightful culinary experience that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Savor the delightful flavors of Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne, a comforting and easy-to-make pasta dish that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe features tender chicken, al dente penne, and a rich creamy pesto sauce that envelops each bite in deliciousness. With fresh spinach and juicy cherry tomatoes adding color and nutrition, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a satisfying meal. Adaptable for various tastes, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Cook up this culinary masterpiece and enjoy a taste of comfort!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water if desired for adjusting the sauce later.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally with a spatula, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest.

Prepare the Sauce: Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Make it Creamy: Carefully pour in the heavy cream, and stir frequently as it comes to a gentle simmer. Mix in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has turned creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the drained penne pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce, and everything is heated through, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Serve: Plate the Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne while still warm. Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and a touch of elegance.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4