Are you ready to impress your family with a quick, creamy delight? This Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne recipe combines tender chicken, fresh pesto, and creamy goodness in one simple dish. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll create a satisfying dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe, perfect for any night of the week!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This creamy pesto chicken penne is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner without compromising on flavor.
- Rich and Flavorful Sauce: The combination of heavy cream and basil pesto creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Fresh Ingredients: With cherry tomatoes and spinach, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
- Versatile Dish: This recipe can be adapted with different proteins or vegetables, making it a flexible option for any palate.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Each ingredient plays a key role. The penne pasta provides a great base. Chicken breasts add protein and heartiness. Heavy cream makes the dish rich and creamy. Basil pesto gives a burst of flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch. Cherry tomatoes add color and a bit of sweetness. Baby spinach brings freshness and nutrients. Olive oil helps cook the chicken and adds flavor. The seasonings tie it all together. Finally, fresh basil leaves give a nice garnish and aroma.
Feel free to explore local markets for fresh ingredients. You can also make your own pesto for a personal touch. This dish is simple yet full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
1. First, fill a large pot with water and add salt.
2. Bring the water to a rolling boil on high heat.
3. Once boiling, add 2 cups of penne pasta.
4. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
5. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander.
6. Reserve a cup of the pasta water for later use.
Cooking the Chicken
1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet.
3. Season the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it is golden brown.
5. Ensure the chicken is cooked through, then remove it from the skillet.
Making the Creamy Pesto Sauce
1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium.
2. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and let it simmer gently.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup of basil pesto and mix well.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
5. Add 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
Combining Ingredients
1. Add the cooked chicken, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 2 cups of fresh spinach to the sauce.
2. Stir gently to mix everything together.
3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes warm up.
Finalizing the Dish
1. Now, toss in the cooked penne pasta and mix well.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
3. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- Ensuring pasta is cooked al dente: Start with a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil. Add the penne and cook it for 10-12 minutes. Check for firmness before draining. You want it slightly chewy.
- Seasoning chicken perfectly: Use salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle them on the chicken when it hits the hot skillet. This brings out the chicken's flavor.
- How to prevent sauce from curdling: Keep the heat at medium. Mix the cream slowly into the pan. Stir constantly as you add the pesto to keep it smooth.
Presentation Suggestions
- Serving style for visual appeal: Use shallow bowls to serve the pasta. This way, the colors pop. The creamy sauce will stand out.
- Garnishing with basil and Parmesan: Add fresh basil leaves on top. Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese for a rich touch.
- Adding extra pesto for decoration: Drizzle a bit of pesto over the dish. It adds a nice color contrast and extra flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Preparing components in advance: Cook and cool the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Store them in the fridge. This saves time when you are ready to eat.
- Storing pre-cooked chicken or pasta: Keep chicken and pasta in separate airtight containers. They stay fresh for up to three days.
- Reheating tips without losing flavor: Use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce creamy. Stir gently until warmed.
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Always cook the penne pasta until al dente for the best texture. This prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the creamy sauce.
- Homemade Pesto Advantage: If possible, try making your own basil pesto. Freshly made pesto can elevate the flavor of the dish significantly compared to store-bought versions.
- Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don't hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help you achieve the desired creamy consistency.
- Garnishing for Presentation: For an elegant finish, garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving to enhance the visual appeal.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the pasta type. Try fusilli or farfalle instead of penne. Each shape holds sauce differently. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a sweet taste. Tofu is great for a plant-based option. For greens, use kale or arugula. Both add unique flavors and textures.
Flavor Additions
Want more flavor? Add minced garlic or chopped onion. Both bring depth to the sauce. You can mix in seasonal vegetables too. Think bell peppers, zucchini, or peas. These add color and nutrients. For a bright twist, infuse the sauce with lemon zest. It enhances the pesto's herbal notes.
Dietary Adjustments
Make this dish gluten-free by using alternative pasta. Options like chickpea pasta work well. For dairy-free needs, swap heavy cream with coconut milk. It gives a creamy feel without dairy. You can also make low-calorie substitutions. Use less cream and cheese or add more veggies. This keeps your meal light and tasty.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. Make sure the dish cools down first. Creamy pesto chicken penne lasts in the fridge for up to three days. Always check for freshness before eating.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this dish, but do it right. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Use a label with the date for easy reference. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight. For best results, reheat on the stovetop, not in the microwave.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, you have two options: microwave or stovetop. Microwaving is quick, but stovetop gives better results. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir often to avoid hot spots. On the stovetop, add a splash of cream or chicken broth. This keeps the sauce creamy and smooth. Enjoy your meal just like when it was fresh!
FAQs
Common Questions about Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne
What can I use instead of heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or coconut cream. Both will add creaminess. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt. It adds tang and richness without the fat.
Can I use homemade pesto? Absolutely! Homemade pesto adds fresh flavor. Use your favorite recipe or try different herbs. Basil, spinach, or arugula can work well.
How do I know when chicken is fully cooked? Check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C). The meat should be white and juices should run clear. Cut into a piece to be sure.
Questions about Cooking Techniques
Can I cook pasta directly in the sauce? Yes, but it requires more liquid. Make sure the sauce is thin enough to cook the pasta evenly. Stir often to prevent sticking.
What’s the best way to prevent pasta from sticking? Add a bit of olive oil to the boiling water. Stir the pasta frequently during cooking. Drain and toss with sauce right away.
Should I rinse the pasta after cooking? No, do not rinse the pasta. Rinsing removes starch that helps the sauce cling. Just drain it and add it to the sauce.
Serving and Pairing Questions
What to serve with creamy pesto chicken penne? A simple green salad is perfect. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also complement the dish well. Try pairing with roasted veggies for a hearty meal.
Can I serve this dish cold? Yes, this dish can be served cold. It makes a great pasta salad. Chill in the fridge and enjoy it fresh on a warm day.
Wine pairings for this recipe? A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs well. A light red, such as Pinot Noir, also works nicely. Choose a wine that complements the basil flavor.
This article covered delicious creamy pesto chicken penne. We explored vital ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to enhance your dish. Remember, variations allow for creativity, and storage tips help enjoy leftovers.
Embrace your cooking journey, and make this meal your own. Enjoy each bite and share your success!
