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–+ servings
A bowl of chicken pesto pasta with penne, grilled chicken pieces, and fresh basil.

Quick Pesto Chicken Penne

This recipe is perfect for when you crave a delicious chicken dish that's quick to make. It combines tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and penne pasta for a satisfying weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 (8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1" pieces
  • 3/4 tsp. Kosher salt divided
  • 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 3/4 cups water
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz. penne
  • 1 oz. Parmesan finely grated (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2/3 cup pesto store-bought or homemade
  • Fresh basil for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • Medium skillet
  • Instant-read thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add chicken; season with 3/4 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and an instant-read thermometer registers 160°, 4 to 5 minutes total. Transfer to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet over medium heat, cook garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add water, cream, and 1/2 tsp. salt and bring to a simmer. Add penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is reduced to a sauce that coats the pasta, 8 to 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in Parmesan and chicken and toss until cheese is melted and chicken is warmed through, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in pesto; if sauce feels dry, add water, 1 Tbsp. at a time, until a creamy sauce forms. Season with more salt, if needed. Top with basil (if using).

Notes

This recipe was developed by Ryan Cooper, Efficiency & Testing Coordinator.

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