Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Savor the flavors of this delightful Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy pesto sauce and pasta. With the addition of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is both flavorful and nutritious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb. penne pasta
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 3 oz. cream cheese, cut into chunks
• 1/3 cup basil pesto
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• A pinch of crushed red pepper
• 3 cups fresh spinach, optional
• 1/4 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes, optional

Directions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and cook the chicken until slightly browned.
2. Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute.
3. Cook the Pasta: Pour in uncooked penne and chicken broth. Stir to loosen any brown bits from the skillet and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for about 8 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in milk, cream cheese, and pesto, cooking until the cream cheese is melted.
5. Add Parmesan Cheese: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until fully integrated.
6. Optional Additions: If desired, add spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts.
7. Season and Serve: Season with cracked black pepper and crushed red pepper. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 560 per serving
• Servings: 4

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. With its creamy sauce and flavorful ingredients, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy!