Description
Learn how to make this delicious and easy Chicken Pesto Pasta! This detailed recipe features tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, broccoli, and Parmesan cheese. Get step-by-step instructions, variations, and a comprehensive FAQ.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into 1/2-inch strips
- 1 cup light cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 4 cups al dente pasta, drained (approximately 8–12 oz dry pasta)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, frozen or fresh
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, or until al dente.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 1 minute of cooking time. If using fresh broccoli, you may need to add it a few minutes earlier, depending on the size of the florets.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and golden.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for just a few seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the sliced chicken to the pan.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, light cream, pesto, salt, and pepper to the pan with the chicken.
- Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the pan with the sauce.
- Stir gently until the pasta and broccoli are fully coated with the sauce.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and garnish with more Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately.