Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta – Quick & Easy 30-Minute Dinner Idea

by Best RecipesEasy Meals in Just Minutes

Making a quick 30-minute meal doesn’t have to be complicated, and this creamy pesto chicken pasta is the perfect example. Packed with flavor and ready in no time, it’s a great option for a simple yet satisfying dinner. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an easy lunch idea, this dish delivers on taste and convenience.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
  • 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Make the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the pesto and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  5. Combine everything: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it evenly with the creamy pesto sauce. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

This creamy pesto chicken pasta is a delicious and quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings. The rich, herby pesto pairs beautifully with tender chicken and al dente pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser. If you’re in the mood for something even easier, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients (except pasta) and cooking on low for 4-5 hours. Serve over freshly cooked pasta for a comforting and yummy dish.

Whether you need a fast dinner solution or a simple lunch idea, this recipe is a winner. It’s versatile, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes—what more could you ask for?

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