Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta with Spring Vegetables
This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a perfect dish to welcome spring. It combines succulent chicken breast with bright green asparagus and peas, all tossed in a rich, velvety pesto cream sauce. It's a comforting yet fresh meal, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering as the weather starts to warm up.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
- 2While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- 3In the same skillet, add asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Add peas and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low.
- 4Stir in heavy cream and pesto into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the cooked chicken and drained pasta. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- 5Stir in the Parmesan cheese. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 6Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli florets, spinach, or bell peppers would also work well in this dish. Add spinach in the last minute of cooking to wilt.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream (like cashew or oat cream) and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Ensure your pesto is also dairy-free.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
