Ah, creamy chicken pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes—just saying that makes my taste buds dance! This dish has a special place in my heart and my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I need a comforting meal that also impresses my family or guests. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was an impromptu dinner for some friends who popped by unexpectedly. I was in a bit of a panic, but I threw together what I had on hand, and lo and behold, it became an instant hit! Now, it’s a staple on busy weeknights or whenever I’m craving something rich and flavorful.
The combination of creamy sauce, zesty pesto, juicy chicken, and burstingly sweet roasted tomatoes is simply heavenly. Plus, it comes together faster than you can say “pasta night”! So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious, creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe together!
What’s in Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes?
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so special:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are the protein stars of our dish! I love using boneless, skinless cuts because they cook quickly and stay nice and juicy.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and vibrant, these little gems add a pop of color and burst with flavor when roasted. You can’t have a comforting pasta dish without them!
Penne or Fusilli Pasta: Choose your favorite shape! Penne is traditionally used, but fusilli’s spirals are perfect for holding onto sauce.
Heavy Cream: The key to that luscious, creamy sauce. It transforms the whole dish into something truly indulgent.
Basil Pesto: This is where we get that beautiful, fresh basil flavor that dances around your palate. I often opt for store-bought because it’s super convenient, but homemade is always a treat if you have the time!
Olive Oil: Just a bit for cooking the chicken and roasting the tomatoes. I like to use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for depth of flavor.
Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic! It adds a beautiful aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the chicken wonderfully.
Salt and Black Pepper: The basic seasoning duo essential for any savory dish.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a salty, nutty richness that brings everything together.
Fresh Basil Leaves for Garnish: (optional) They add a lovely touch of freshness right before serving!
Is Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about whether this creamy delight is good for you. It’s definitely a treat rather than a daily meal, but it has some redeemable qualities!
Chicken breast: It’s lean and packed with protein, which is great for maintaining muscle and keeping you full.
Cherry tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, these little fruits also provide antioxidants, which are fantastic for your skin and overall health.
Heavy cream: While it adds creaminess and richness, it’s also higher in calories and fat. So, if you need a lighter option, using half-and-half could be a good alternative.
Basil pesto: Made from fresh basil, it delivers healthy fats from the pine nuts and olive oil. Just be mindful of the portion size since it can add calories.
In conclusion, while this dish isn’t something to eat every day, enjoying it in moderation can certainly fit into a balanced diet!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 2 cups penne or fusilli pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup basil pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves around 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes?
Okay, let’s get down to business—here’s how to whip up this delectable dish:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for roasting the tomatoes to perfection!
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
3. While the chicken is cooking, boil water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water if you like creamier sauce!
4. After searing the chicken, toss the cherry tomatoes around it in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
5. Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. Meanwhile, stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto with the roasted tomatoes and any juices from the skillet. Heat this mixture over medium-low until warmed through.
6. Slice the rested chicken and add it back into the creamy pesto sauce. Then, toss in the cooked pasta and mix until everything is well-coated in the luxurious sauce.
7. Sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves if you’d like.
8. Serve warm and get ready to enjoy a comforting plate of creamy chicken pesto pasta!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for Success!
Want to make your pasta night even more special? Here are some tips and variations to consider:
– Add a handful of spinach or kale when mixing in the pasta for a pop of green and extra nutrients.
– For an added crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
– Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread to make it a full meal!
– If you like it spicy, a pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a satisfying kick to the dish.
I hope you’re as excited to try this creamy chicken pesto pasta as I am to share it! It’s one of those recipes that brings family and friends together, and it’s so easy to make, you’ll be whipping it up on busy weeknights in no time. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t stress about it—just enjoy the process. And please let me know how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
