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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring pasta coated in a luscious pesto cream sauce with tender chicken pieces, perfect for easy family meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced Ensure chicken is Halal-certified.
  • 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or Greek yogurt mixed with milk for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine cooked chicken and pesto sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken in the pesto, allowing it to warm up.
  3. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir until the mixture thickens slightly. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Gently fold the cooked pasta into the creamy chicken pesto sauce until well incorporated.
  6. Plate the creamy chicken pesto pasta and garnish with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions and reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or water.