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5.0 from 12 votes

Creamy Chicken Pasta {with Pesto}

Creamy Chicken Pasta {with Pesto} is penne noodles in a cheesy, creamy sauce with added pesto and pan-fried pesto chicken.

Prep Time
30 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
40 mins
Servings: 4
Calories: 748 kcal
Course: Main Course , Dinner

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente according to package directions.
  • 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 2 pounds
  • ¾ cup (180 g) basil pesto, divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (245 g) whole milk
  • 1 cup (240 g) chicken stock
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup (149 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • fresh basil, minced for garnish

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Brush chicken with ½ cup of pesto, coating all sides.
  2. To a large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil.
  3. Once the oil is hot, add chicken and cook for 7-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. (Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts.)
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Tent to keep warm.
  5. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute, or until fragrant.
  6. Add the flour and whisk, scraping up any brown bits in the pan, until the mixture is lightly browned, about 2 minutes.
  7. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Mix in the chicken stock, cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a low rolling boil and then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
  8. Remove from heat. Add in the remaining pesto, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted. Mix in the cooked pasta.
  9. Slice chicken, add to the top of the dish, and mix in with the rest of the ingredients. Salt to taste. Garnish with basil.

Nutrition Information

Calories 748kcal (37%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 748

% Daily Value*

Calories 748kcal 37%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.