Description
A rich and indulgent pasta dish featuring tender seared chicken, a luscious pesto cream sauce, and a touch of Parmesan. This easy-to-make meal is bursting with nutty, herbaceous flavors—perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner!
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Chicken:
500g (1 lb) pasta, any type
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
3 cloves garlic, minced
80g (⅓ cup) basil pesto (about ½ jar)
100ml (⅓ cup) single cream
100ml (⅓ cup) vegetable stock (made with a stock cube)
For Toppings & Garnish:
2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped
1 ball mozzarella, torn
1 bunch fresh basil, chopped
50g (½ cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of non-stick parchment paper.
- Pound lightly with a rolling pin until evenly thin. Season with salt and pepper.
-
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick frying pan over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
-
Make the Pesto Cream Sauce:
- In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in the pesto, followed by the single cream and vegetable stock.
- Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
-
Combine & Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the pasta.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts, torn mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and fresh basil.
- Serve immediately with extra black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken for an even quicker meal.
- Swap single cream for heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired