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In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, vibrant flavors of Pesto Chicken Penne. This delightful recipe combines the rich taste of basil pesto with tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and an assortment of fresh vegetables, creating a meal that's not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. As the aroma of garlic and fresh basil fills your kitchen, you’ll quickly understand why this dish is a favorite among families and food enthusiasts alike. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Pesto Chicken Penne showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients and the ease of pasta cooking.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne

Discover the delightful flavors of Creamy Green Delight: Pesto Chicken Penne, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and vibrant fresh vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe highlights the robust taste of homemade basil pesto and a creamy sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this vibrant meal is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy the balance of flavors and the wholesome goodness of fresh ingredients in every delicious bite.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups fresh spinach

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook per the package's instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. After cooking, drain the pasta well and set aside. Be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large, non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. While the oil heats, season the diced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a mixing bowl. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and sauté for approximately 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once finished, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

      Create the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium-low. Carefully pour in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. Gradually mix in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted, creating a rich and creamy sauce.

        Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy pesto sauce, followed by the sautéed chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Gently toss all ingredients together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your preferred consistency.

          Garnish and Serve: Permit the combined dish to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through. For a fresh touch, garnish with vibrant basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your deliciously creamy pesto chicken penne!

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

              Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the pasta in deep bowls, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. A sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper can add a touch of elegance!