Creamy Pesto Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup prepared pesto
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
2. 2 While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. 3 Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
4. 4 Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. 5 Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer.
6. 6 Stir in pesto and Parmesan cheese until well combined and sauce is creamy; add pasta water if needed.
7. 7 Toss cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
8. 8 Finish with a swirl of butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9 Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Variations

• Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Add artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor.

Substitutions

• Use dairy-free cream for a vegan option.
• Substitute pesto with a basil and olive oil mixture if needed.

Pairings

• Chianti wine
• Sparkling water with lemon

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, toast the pine nuts in your pesto.
• Add a handful of spinach for extra greens and nutrients.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

FAQ