Chicken Pesto Pasta

Featuring store-bought pesto along with just six other ingredients, this 30-minute one-pan meal is truly the lazy cook’s dream.

Prep: 10mTotal: 30m4 serving(s)ItalianContains meat

Imported from www.delish.com

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Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil0
  • 2 (8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1" pieces0
  • Kosher salt0
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped0
  • 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes0
  • 1 3/4 c. water0
  • 3/4 c. heavy cream0
  • 8 oz. penne0
  • 1 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1/2 cup)0
  • 2/3 c. store-bought or homemade pesto0
  • Fresh basil, for serving (optional)0

Nutrition

1074

Calories (kcal)

114

Protein (g)

93

Carbs (g)

62

Fat (g)

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add chicken; season with 3/4 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and an instant-read thermometer registers 160°, 4 to 5 minutes total. Transfer to a plate.

  2. 2

    In same skillet over medium heat, cook garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add water, cream, and 1/2 tsp. salt and bring to a simmer. Add penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is reduced to a sauce that coats the pasta, 8 to 10 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in Parmesan and chicken and toss until cheese is melted and chicken is warmed through, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in pesto; if sauce feels dry, add water, 1 Tbsp. at a time, until a creamy sauce forms. Season with more salt, if needed. Top with basil (if using).