Indulge your taste buds with a dish that perfectly marries rich flavors and creamy textures: Creamy Pesto Chicken Fettuccine! This Italian delight is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and easy meal that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. Imagine tender fettuccine enveloped in a luscious pesto cream sauce, complemented by juicy slices of chicken and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy. Ready to dive into culinary bliss? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. If not already cooked, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill, bake, or pan-sear until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 3-5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- In a large skillet, combine pesto and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir continuously to blend the ingredients and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Drain the cooked fettuccine, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust sauce consistency.
- Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the pesto cream sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Fold in the sliced chicken, ensuring it's well distributed throughout the pasta.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir to incorporate. If sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Always cook your fettuccine until al dente for the best texture. This means it should be firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Customize Your Chicken: If you're short on time, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save on cooking time. Just slice it up and toss it in!
- Pesto Quality Matters: Use a high-quality pesto for the best flavor. If you have the time, homemade pesto can elevate this dish even further.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh basil and extra Parmesan on top! They add a burst of freshness and enhance the overall presentation.
- Leftover Magic: This dish makes great leftovers! Simply reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
