Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts! This dish combines the rich flavors of creamy pesto with tender chicken, sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and full of vibrant taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of pesto, chicken, and roasted tomatoes creates a delightful flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the pine nuts, this dish is both delicious and nourishing.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even add more vegetables to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
For the creamy chicken pesto pasta, you will need:
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.
2. Roast the Cherry Tomatoes
While the pasta is cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved cherry tomatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
3. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken and heavy cream. Stir in the basil pesto and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken pesto sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve
To serve, plate the creamy chicken pesto pasta and top it with the roasted cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, try to use fresh basil in your pesto.
- Toast the Pine Nuts: Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is sure to become a family favorite. With its quick preparation time and delicious flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful dish for a weeknight dinner or as a centerpiece for your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Give this recipe a try, and you won’t be disappointed! Happy cooking!
