Creamy Pesto Chicken Rotini

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. 2 While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through.
3. 3 In a food processor, blend basil, 1/4 cup Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic until finely chopped.
4. 4 With the processor running, slowly drizzle in heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5 Combine pesto sauce, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and drained pasta in a large bowl. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess.
6. 6 Serve immediately, garnished with remaining Parmesan and optional red pepper flakes.

Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Food processor
• Large mixing bowl

Variations

• Add grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Substitute chicken with roasted butternut squash for a vegetarian option.

Substitutions

• Sun-dried tomatoes can replace pine nuts for a tangy twist.
• Spinach can be used in place of basil for a different flavor profile.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables

Nutrition

Tips

• For a quicker option, use store-bought pesto but add a splash of cream for richness.
• Toasting the pine nuts brings out their nutty flavor but can be skipped in a pinch.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, stirring in extra cream for moisture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad.
• Pair with a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful dinner.

FAQ