Savor the delightful flavors of this Creamy Pesto Chicken and Bow Ties, a quick and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely dinners. Tender chicken is sautéed to perfection and tossed with bow tie pasta, fresh basil pesto, and a rich cream sauce that adds a luscious texture and depth of flavor. This dish combines the earthy notes of pesto with the savory taste of chicken, creating a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a touch of fresh herbs, it’s not just delicious but also visually appealing, making it a standout on any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the basil pesto, mixing until well combined. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Divide the creamy pesto chicken and bow ties among serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Enjoy this deliciously creamy dish that captures the essence of Italian flavors in every comforting bite!
