As I stirred the pasta in the creamy sauce, the unmistakable aroma of basil pesto filled my kitchen, sweeping me away to a sun-soaked Italian trattoria. This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome yet quick. With tender chicken, roasted tomatoes, and a luscious sauce ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a family-friendly meal that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—swap in your favorite veggies or pasta types to suit your pantry or preferences. Curious how to whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the details! Why is this recipe a must-try? Simplicity at Its Best: This Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The rich basil pesto and sweet roasted tomatoes create a mouthwatering combination that your family will rave about. Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a pasta dish! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match vegetables or pasta types based on what you have on hand, just like with Crockpot Chicken Corn or Buffalo Chicken Taquitos. Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for those hectic evenings. Comforting Texture: The creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and vibrant tomatoes makes for a satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Ingredients For the Pasta • Pasta – Use short pasta like farfalle, penne, or fusilli for better sauce coating. • Olive Oil – Essential for roasting tomatoes and cooking chicken, enhancing the dish’s flavor. • Cherry Tomatoes – Adds sweetness and acidity; can be substituted with sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste. For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless for quick cooking; slice thinly for even preparation. • Garlic – Fresh minced garlic provides aromatic depth, enhancing the overall taste. • Salt – Necessary for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your preference. • Black Pepper – Freshly ground offers mild heat; use to season chicken and pasta. • Paprika – Optional, but recommended for added color and mild spice. For the Sauce • Basil Pesto – The star ingredient that brings flavor magic; adjust quantity based on taste preferences. • Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious creamy sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option. For the Toppings • Pine Nuts – Optional for a toasted topping; adds a lovely crunch and richness. This Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes is truly a weeknight hero, bringing vibrant flavors to your table in no time! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Roast Tomatoes Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, take halved cherry tomatoes and toss them in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and minced garlic until well-coated. Spread the tomatoes evenly on a baking sheet and roast them for about 20 minutes, until they’re tender and bursting with flavor, creating a delightful aroma in your kitchen. Step 2: Prepare and Cook Chicken While the tomatoes are roasting, season thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for color and mild spice. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove and slice them into strips. Step 3: Cook the Pasta Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook your chosen short pasta, such as farfalle or penne, according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed, and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. Step 4: Combine Pasta, Pesto, and Cream In the same skillet that you used for the chicken, reduce the heat to low and add your cooked pasta. Pour in the basil pesto and heavy cream, gently stirring everything together until the pasta is well coated. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken slightly and integrate all those lovely flavors from the creamy pesto and roasted tomatoes. Step 5: Assemble and Serve Finally, plate your creamy pesto chicken pasta by adding generous amounts of the creamy pasta to each dish. Top it with sliced chicken and the beautifully roasted tomatoes. For an extra touch, sprinkle some optional toasted pine nuts for crunch. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving this delightful Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes to your family. Expert Tips for Creamy Pesto Chicken Chicken Cooking: Monitor the chicken closely while cooking to avoid over-drying. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety. Sauce Consistency: For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the noodles. Taste Test: Always taste before serving! Pesto can be salty, so adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for your creamy pesto chicken. Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, right before combining with the pasta for added nutrition and flavor. Storage Tip: If you’re making this dish ahead of time, store components separately to maintain texture—keep pasta, chicken, and sauce in separate containers. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prep the chicken and roasted tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, simply season the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, while the tomatoes can be roasted, cooled, and refrigerated in a separate container. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and warm the sauce on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to restore its consistency. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors just as delicious as when freshly made, making your meal prep a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pesto Chicken Fridge: Store leftover creamy pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while maintaining freshness. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, wrap tightly and label with the date. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore the texture of the creamy sauce. Meal Prep: If preparing ahead, consider storing the components separately to maintain freshness, keeping pasta, chicken, and sauce in different containers for optimal flavor. Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Pesto Chicken Feel free to make this dish your own by experimenting with these tasty ideas! Shrimp Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. Cook the shrimp until pink and tender for a flavorful alternative. Veggie-Packed: Add in your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, right before mixing in the sauce for a nutritious boost. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful rainbow of color to your dish! Whole Grain Pasta: Opt for whole grain pasta in place of regular pasta for a healthier, nutty flavor. It’s a simple swap that packs in extra nutrients. Dairy-Free Dream: Make this dish dairy-free by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a vegan pesto. Your taste buds won’t even miss the dairy! Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or thyme on top before serving to elevate the freshness and aroma of your dish. These herbs will add a burst of flavor! Pesto Variation: Experiment with different types of pesto like sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto for unique flavor profiles. Each type offers a delightful twist on the traditional! Spice It Up: For heat lovers, add crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken. It’ll give your creamy pesto chicken an exciting kick. Nut-Free Version: Omit pine nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. You’ll still get that delightful crunch without the allergens. Feel inspired to mix and match flavors? Try pairing this dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal reminiscent of a cozy family dinner. Enjoy learning how to create an unforgettable dining experience! What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta As the aroma of basil and cream fills your home, consider these delightful sides to create a comforting and complete meal experience. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, golden loaf slathered with garlic butter complements the creamy pesto beautifully, perfect for soaking up every delicious drop. The contrasting texture between the crunchy crust and soft inside makes it irresistible. Simple Green Salad: A fresh, vibrant mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness that balances the richness of the pasta dish. The crunchy veggies will refresh your palate while enhancing the meal’s overall appeal. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus roasted with olive oil and herbs enhance the dish’s flavor profile. Their caramelization brings out natural sweetness, adding depth and color to your table. Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio offers a crisp contrast to the creamy texture of the pasta, while the acidity cuts through the richness and brightens the flavors of the meal. Pesto Bruschetta: Topped with fresh basil pesto, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese on toasted baguette slices, this appetizer echoes the flavors in your creamy pesto chicken while adding a delightful crunch. Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert, this sorbet helps cleanse the palate after this delectable dish, leaving you feeling invigorated and eager for your next bite. The zesty flavor contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the main course. Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right tomatoes for this recipe? Absolutely! Choose firm cherry tomatoes that are vibrant and free from dark spots. If they’re overly soft or have blemishes, they may not roast well. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, sun-dried tomatoes can be a delightful substitute, offering a richer flavor. How long can I store leftovers in the fridge? You can safely store leftover creamy pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the dish fresh, allowing you to enjoy it later without losing its delightful flavors! Can I freeze Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes? Very much so! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, make sure to wrap it tightly and label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to bring back its creamy texture. What if the sauce is too thick after reheating? If your sauce seems too thick after reheating, simply add a little reserved pasta water or a splash of cream to loosen it up. Stir gently over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. The more the merrier when it comes to creamy sauce! Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions? Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to adjust the recipe by using whole grain pasta for a healthier twist or substitute chicken with plant-based proteins like mushrooms or zucchini. Adjust the pesto according to your preferences, and watch how everyone loves your Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes! Is this dish safe for pets? While the primary ingredients are safe for most humans, it’s not advisable to share with pets because of the heavy cream and spices like garlic, which can be harmful to dogs. Always check with your vet if in doubt about your pet’s diet! Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes for a Cozy Dinner This Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, roasted tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Short Pasta (such as farfalle, penne, or fusilli) Use for better sauce coating.2 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for roasting and cooking.1 pt Cherry Tomatoes Can be substituted with sun-dried tomatoes.For the Chicken2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Slice thinly for even cooking.4 cloves Garlic Fresh, minced for flavor depth.1 tsp Salt Adjust according to preference.1 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground for seasoning.1 tsp Paprika Optional, for color and mild spice.For the Sauce1 cup Basil Pesto Adjust quantity based on taste.1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with half-and-half.For the Toppings1/4 cup Pine Nuts Optional, for a crunchy topping. Equipment ovenskilletPotbaking sheet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved cherry tomatoes in a bowl with olive oil and minced garlic. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes.Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Slice into strips.Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water.In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add cooked pasta. Stir in basil pesto and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce.Plate the pasta, adding sliced chicken and roasted tomatoes. Top with optional pine nuts. Adjust seasoning before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesMonitor chicken closely while cooking. Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Store components separately if making ahead. 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