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In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the allure of a creamy pasta meal. Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne is a delightful blend of tender penne pasta, succulent chicken, and vibrant flavors that come together in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends, offering both simplicity in preparation and sophistication in taste. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of creating this delicious recipe, the benefits of its ingredients, and tips for achieving the perfect creamy texture. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will help you craft a meal that is sure to impress.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne recipe! This dish combines tender penne pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Dive into detailed instructions, ingredient insights, and tips for achieving the ideal creamy texture. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this guide will help you impress with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup spinach leaves, fresh

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

    Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

      Add Chicken and Tomatoes: Stir in the shredded chicken and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.

        Incorporate Cream and Pesto: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring until combined. Add the basil pesto and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

          Add the Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to wilt into the sauce.

            Combine with Pasta: Incorporate the cooked penne into the skillet, tossing until all the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.

              Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

                Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and let sit for a minute. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra parmesan if desired.

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