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Before diving into the preparation, it’s essential to understand the key ingredients that make up this delightful dish. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne recipe! This dish combines the hearty goodness of penne pasta with tender chicken, all enveloped in a rich, creamy basil pesto sauce. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, it's quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Learn how to make this delicious meal that brings warmth and joy to your table, complete with tips on ingredient selection and serving suggestions for the perfect dining experience.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie for added flavor)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or high-quality store-bought)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

    Prepare the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Next, add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

      Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine it with the chicken and garlic. Add the basil pesto and mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the creamy pesto sauce until every piece of pasta is well-coated. Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to warm through and the flavors to unify.

          Add Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

            Serve: Plate the creamy pesto chicken penne into individual serving bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this rich, comforting dish!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings