Welcome to a flavorful journey with Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta—a gluten-free dish that promises to delight your taste buds. This delicious pasta recipe stands out in the realm of easy weeknight dinners, offering a delightful combination of creamy texture and aromatic pesto. Whether you’re a dedicated pasta lover or simply searching for a hearty, comforting meal to satisfy your hunger, this dish is your perfect go-to option. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also easy to whip up in just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
The charm of this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta lies not just in its taste but also in its versatility. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Packed with fresh ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes and vibrant basil, this dish doesn’t just fill you up; it also offers a sensory experience that will leave everyone at your table raving about dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a gluten-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Easy Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy sauce and zesty basil pesto creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as using tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Healthy Ingredients: Featuring lean protein, fresh vegetables, and gluten-free pasta, this dish is a nutritious filling choice.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Begin by measuring out your ingredients and setting them within easy reach. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the gluten-free bowtie pasta, along with a colander for draining it once it’s cooked. A large skillet or frying pan will be essential for sautéing and combining your ingredients effectively. Non-stick cookware can simplify clean-up and help ensure that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
Additionally, keep a wooden spoon or spatula handy—this will be useful for stirring the pasta and sauce together. Some find it helpful to prep their basil by chopping or tearing it ahead of time to brighten up the dish just before serving. Gather your fresh basil leaves alongside any optional garnishes, such as additional Parmesan cheese, to have everything ready for an impressive serving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by preparing the gluten-free bowtie pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and carefully add your pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, ensuring that you stir occasionally. Once al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Be sure to reserve some of the pasta water in case you need to thin out your sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the skillet. Sauté the chicken for about two minutes until it’s warmed through. At this stage, sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder and give it a good stir to evenly coat the chicken in the garlic flavor, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce
Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture, letting it simmer gently for a few minutes. You want the cream to heat up without boiling, as this can alter the texture. Once the cream starts to bubble softly, add in the basil pesto, stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, enhancing the flavors as they meld.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
After your sauce has thickened and is wonderfully fragrant, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy pesto sauce. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, giving the dish bursts of freshness and color. Make sure they’re well incorporated without mashing the tomatoes.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Lastly, season the dish with salt and pepper to your taste. To elevate the flavors even further, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation and an added layer of freshness. Serve your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta warm alongside a crisp side salad or gluten-free bread.
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a plant-based protein option.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for an extra nutrient boost and flavor.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor profile with crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or Italian seasoning for more herbal notes.
Cooking Notes
- Check the pasta package for cooking times, as gluten-free varieties can differ greatly.
- Make sure to stir the sauce continuously when adding pesto to avoid curdling the cream.
- If you find the sauce too thick, incorporate a little reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- For the absolute best flavor, consider using homemade basil pesto, if available; it can make a world of difference!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a seasonal salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette for a fresh side dish.
- A slice of gluten-free garlic bread pairs beautifully to soak up any extra creamy sauce.
Tips
- Experiment with different types of gluten-free pasta shapes to find your favorite—penne or rotini work really well too.
- Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for an intense flavor that plays well with the pesto.
- Feel free to double the recipe for meal prep, as leftovers reheat very well in the microwave.
- Further elevate your dish by adding some toasted pine nuts on top for a satisfying crunch.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
- Protein: About 35 grams
- Sodium: 500 milligrams
FAQs
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free cream alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan version.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, this pasta can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave after thawing.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or peas for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that every pasta lover deserves to try. With its rich flavors, simple preparation, and versatility, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Remember that cooking is about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. We encourage you to share your thoughts and any variations you try in the comments section below. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delightful creamy pasta dish infused with aromatic basil pesto.
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the gluten-free bowtie pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and carefully add your pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, ensuring that you stir occasionally. Once al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Be sure to reserve some of the pasta water in case you need to thin out your sauce later.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the skillet. Sauté the chicken for about two minutes until it’s warmed through. At this stage, sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder and give it a good stir to evenly coat the chicken in the garlic flavor, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
- Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture, letting it simmer gently for a few minutes. You want the cream to heat up without boiling, as this can alter the texture. Once the cream starts to bubble softly, add in the basil pesto, stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, enhancing the flavors as they meld.
- After your sauce has thickened and is wonderfully fragrant, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy pesto sauce. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, giving the dish bursts of freshness and color. Make sure they’re well incorporated without mashing the tomatoes.
- Lastly, season the dish with salt and pepper to your taste. To elevate the flavors even further, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation and an added layer of freshness. Serve your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta warm alongside a crisp side salad or gluten-free bread.
Notes
Check the pasta package for cooking times, as gluten-free varieties can differ greatly. If you find the sauce too thick, incorporate a little reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Protein: 35 g