Parmesan Pesto Pasta with Chicken
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 1 pan
Description: This Parmesan Pesto Pasta with Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for those last-minute gatherings where you want to impress without the stress. With its creamy texture and rich taste, this dish is a comforting option that pairs beautifully with a crisp salad and some freshly baked crusty French bread. Get ready to indulge in a culinary masterpiece that tastes like it took hours to prepare!
Recipe Category: Chicken
Keywords: Poultry, Meat, Potluck, Winter, < 30 Mins, Oven, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Easy
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 4664.6
- Fat: 257.9g
- Saturated Fat: 134.9g
- Cholesterol: 854.2mg
- Sodium: 4234mg
- Carbohydrates: 391.4g
- Fiber: 50.2g
- Sugar: 2.3g
- Protein: 204.1g
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups chicken, cooked and shredded
- 2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 tablespoon margarine
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup penne pasta
- 1 packet pesto sauce mix
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Sauce: In a large saucepan, combine the butter, milk, half-and-half, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the cheese is completely melted and the ingredients are well combined. This creamy base sets the stage for the delicious flavors to come.
-
Incorporate the Pesto: Once the cheese has melted into the sauce, add the pesto sauce mix. Stir it in gently, allowing the aromatic flavors of the pesto to infuse the creamy sauce. This step adds a burst of herbal freshness and depth to the dish.
-
Add the Chicken: Now, it’s time to introduce the star protein of the dish – the cooked and shredded chicken. Add the chicken to the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. The tender chicken pieces will soak up the flavors of the creamy Parmesan and pesto sauce, enhancing their succulence and taste.
-
Simmer to Perfection: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches the desired thickness. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while ensuring that the sauce achieves the perfect consistency – creamy, luxurious, and irresistible.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once the sauce has reached its desired thickness, it’s time to assemble the dish. Serve the creamy Parmesan Pesto Chicken sauce over a bed of cooked penne pasta, ensuring that each serving is generously coated in the flavorful sauce. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of elegance. Pair this delectable pasta dish with a crisp green salad and some warm, crusty French bread for a complete meal that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger.
This Parmesan Pesto Pasta with Chicken is a testament to the fact that impressive dishes don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet-worthy meal that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a beginner cook looking to impress or a seasoned chef seeking a quick and delicious dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a taste of culinary perfection!