Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

 

I’ve got a recipe that’s about to become your new kitchen superstar: Creamy Pesto Pasta and Broccoli. Yup, you heard that right – we’re talking velvety, dreamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, vibrant green broccoli, and a dash of pesto pizzazz. Whether you’re cooking up a storm on a busy weeknight or inviting friends over for some good ol’ comfort food, this dish has your back. So, aprons on and spatulas ready, it’s time to dive into a bowl of pure, unadulterated yum! 🍝🥦🌟

Ingredients, Steps, and Some Sneaky Cooking Hacks Ahead!

My digital cookbook full of my Family’s Italian Family Recipes is available here:

https://melissajorealrecipes.com/product/melissa-jos-italian-recipes-family-style/

Follow me on my Socials: 

Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/melissa_jo_xo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajorealrecipes/

Tiktok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMefwxmFY

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqVeqVQT-x7bj-

Pinterest: https://pin.it/1ylkIzC

 

 

@melissajorealrecipes

Chicken pesto Pasta! 1 lb penne pasta 1 head of broccoli, chopped into florets 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp butter 1 small onion, finely chopped 6 cloves of garlic, minced 2-3 chicken breasts, chopped into cubes Chicken seasoning: 1 tsp garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper each 1 pint heavy cream 1/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano Cheese 1/4 cup pesto Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste. #pesto #pastarecipe #chickenbreastrecipe #easydinner

♬ original sound – Mealtime with Melissa

 

Tips and Tricks:

• For a healthier twist, you can use whole wheat penne pasta or opt for a gluten-free pasta alternative.

• Customize the protein by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.

• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the aromatics.

 

MORE recipes:

• Crispiest Chicken Tenders: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/best-crispy-chicken-tenders/

• One Pot Chicken Cacciatore: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/one-pot-chicken-cacciatore/

• Unstuffed Sausage & Peppers Recipe: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/unstuffed-peppers-one-pot-meal/

• Sunday Sauce: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/melissa-jos-sunday-sauce/

• BEST chicken Cutlets: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/uncategorized/the-only-way-to-make-chicken-cutlets-from-this-moment-forward/

• Grandma Jo’s Stuffed Peppers:https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/grandmas-stuffed-peppers/

• Baked Macaroni & Cheese: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/the-best-baked-macaroni-cheese/

• Chicken Franchaise: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/the-best-chicken-francaise-recipe/

• Macaroni Salad: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/the-best-macaroni-salad/

• Banana Bread Recipe: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dessert/easy-banana-bread-recipe/

• Pork Milanese with Arugula Salad: https://melissajorealrecipes.com/recipes/dinner/pork-milanese-with-arugula-salad/

Melissa Jo Real Recipes

 Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

ngredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta

• 1 head of broccoli, chopped into florets

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 6 cloves of garlic, minced

• 2-3 chicken breasts, chopped into cubes

• Chicken seasoning: 1 tsp garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper each

• 1 pint heavy cream

• 1/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano Cheese

• 1/4 cup pesto

• Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Boil Pasta and Broccoli:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   • Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.

   • About two minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. This will blanch the broccoli, giving it a vibrant color and preserving its crunchiness. Drain both pasta and broccoli and set aside.

2. Saute Chicken and Aromatics:

   • In a pan with high sides, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.

   • Add the chopped chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Saute the chicken until it turns a light golden color. Push the chicken to the edge of the pan to create space in the center.

3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:

   • In the center of the pan, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.

   • Season with a pinch of salt and cracked black pepper.

   • Saute until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

4. Create Creamy Base:

   • Combine the sauteed chicken with the onion and garlic mixture.

   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

   • Stir in the pesto to infuse the sauce with its vibrant flavor.

5. Thicken the Sauce:

   • Gradually sprinkle in the grated Pecorino Romano Cheese while stirring constantly.

   • Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat until it thickens to your desired consistency.Add more alt and pepper if needed.

6. Combine and Serve:

   • Add the cooked penne pasta and blanched broccoli to the creamy sauce.

   • Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta and broccoli evenly with the luscious sauce.