Creamy Chicken Pesto Alfredo
Dive into the indulgent world of creamy pasta with our Chicken Pesto Alfredo recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, rich homemade Alfredo sauce, and the vibrant flavors of basil pesto to create a dinner that’s not only satisfying but delectably memorable. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of their own home—and it’s easier to make than you might think!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta, cooked al dente
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the basil pesto, and continue to simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, and toss to coat the chicken in the sauce evenly. Allow it to warm through for a couple of minutes.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy pesto Alfredo sauce.
- Once heated through, remove from heat. Plate your Chicken Pesto Alfredo, garnishing with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Voilà! Your creamy Chicken Pesto Alfredo is ready to be served. This dish is excellent paired with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine. Enjoy the rich and delectable taste of homemade Alfredo sauce with the delightful twist of fragrant pesto. This meal is sure to please everyone at the table, offering both comfort and a touch of elegance.
Pro Tips:
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream.
- Add some veggies like sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for a nutritional boost and extra flavor.
- If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken and cut it into bite-sized pieces to add to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creaminess of the sauce.