Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pieces Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless, sliced into bite‑size pieces)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (35% fat)
• 0.5 cup Pesto (store‑bought or homemade)
• 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 2 cups Pasta (uncooked, any shape)
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (dried)
• 1 tsp Creole Seasoning (dried)
• 1 tsp Paprika (smoked preferred)
• 1 tsp Salt (to taste)
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 tsp Dry Parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Boil Pasta

   Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, bring to a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, then rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking.

   Time: PT8M

   Temperature: 212°F

2. Cut and Season Chicken

   Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise, then cut into bite‑size pieces. In a small bowl combine Italian seasoning, Creole seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle half of the mixture over the chicken and massage with your hands until evenly coated.

   Time: PT5M

3. Sear Chicken

   Heat the skillet over medium‑high heat, add olive oil, and when shimmering, add the seasoned chicken. Cook about 6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate and set aside.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: 375°F

4. Sauté Garlic

   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden.

   Time: PT1M

   Temperature: 375°F

5. Add Cream and Pesto

   Reduce heat to medium, pour in the heavy cream and stir. Once the cream begins to thicken, add the pesto, the remaining dry seasoning blend, and grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce coats the back of a spoon.

   Time: PT4M

   Temperature: 375°F

6. Combine Chicken and Pasta

   Add the cooked chicken (reserve a few pieces for garnish if desired) and the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, letting the sauce cling to the pasta. Sprinkle dry parsley and extra Parmesan if you like, and simmer for 2 minutes.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: 375°F

7. Plate and Serve

   Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnish with the reserved chicken pieces, a drizzle of extra pesto, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot.

   Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

560

Protein

35g

Carbohydrates

45g

Fat

25g

Fiber

3g