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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta with Mozzarella

A plate of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta with Mozzarella, topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs.
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A simple recipe for tender chicken mixed with pasta in a rich, creamy pesto sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the drained pasta aside.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  6. Whisk in the basil pesto and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce.
  8. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Serve immediately, topping each portion with the remaining mozzarella cheese and fresh chopped basil.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use homemade pesto instead of store-bought.
  • If you prefer a less intense pesto flavor, start with 1/3 cup of pesto and adjust to your taste.
  • You can bake this dish: transfer the coated pasta and chicken to a baking dish, top with all the mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until the cheese melts.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerykings.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-pasta-with-mozzarella/