This Chicken Pesto Pasta is UNREAL | Delish

pesto sauce

🥗Healthier: homemade pesto

💰Cheaper: spinach + garlic + olive oil

Homemade pesto can be lower in calories and cost-effective.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative.

chicken breast

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: canned chicken

Canned chicken is a budget-friendly protein option.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is often less expensive.

Heat olive oil in a skillet.

Add cut up chicken to the skillet and cook until nicely browned; remove and set aside.

Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet; toast until fragrant.

Pour in heavy cream, water, and a little salt; bring to a simmer.

Add penne to the skillet and cook until al dente.

Allow the sauce to reduce until it nicely coats the pasta.

Add cheese and the browned chicken back into the skillet; turn off the heat.

Stir in pesto until smooth and glossy.

Serve topped with additional cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens