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Creamy Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Lunch
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Grilled Chicken:
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1–2 tablespoons pasta water to adjust consistency
  • For the Pasta:
  • 300 g (about 10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
  • Water and salt, for boiling
  • Optional Garnish:
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Cracked black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Chicken : Pat the chicken dry and rub it with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan (or outdoor grill) over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
  • Step 2: Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  • Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce : In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the basil pesto and whisk until well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  • Step 4: Combine Everything : Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top and toss gently or serve it layered.
  • Step 5: Garnish and Serve : Plate the pasta and top with more grilled chicken slices. Garnish with grated Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy the aromatic, creamy goodness!