Basil Pesto Chicken with Alfredo Penne and Sun Dried Tomatoes
2 ½ cups uncooked Penne pasta
2 tsp olive oil
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, pounded to an even thickness
4 tsp prepared basil pesto
3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
1/2 cup butter
8 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes
1 1/3 cup heavy cream, or half and half
1 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/3 cup julienned sun dried tomatoes, in oil, drained
Boil the penne in a pot of water, according to package instructions. Meanwhile heat the 2 tsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breast halves with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet to a plate, cover each chicken breast with 1 tsp of prepared basil pesto, then cover the plate loosely with foil.
In the same skillet add the butter and garlic and stir, to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Once the butter is melted add the cream cheese and whisk until the cream cheese is mostly melted. Reduce the heat to medium low and gradually add the cream to the skillet, while continuing to whisk. Once the mixture is smooth add in the parmesan cheese, salt, pepper and sun dried tomatoes. Whisk until melted and smooth again. Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the pan with the sauce. Stir to coat and then serve alongside with the basil pesto chicken breasts.
This Basil Pesto Chicken with Alfredo Penne and Sun Dried Tomatoes recipe combines classic Italian flavors in a creamy and satisfying meal that's both easy to prepare and delicious. Using boneless, skinless chicken breast pounded evenly ensures quick and even cooking, which keeps the chicken tender and juicy. Spreading prepared basil pesto on the cooked chicken gives it a fresh and aromatic twist, perfectly complementing the richness of the Alfredo sauce. The Alfredo sauce itself is made creamy and smooth by combining butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream, which melt together with garlic for a rich depth of flavor. Adding grated Parmesan cheese boosts the savory notes and provides a luscious texture that coats the penne pasta beautifully. Incorporating julienned sun-dried tomatoes adds a subtle tangy sweetness and chewy texture that balances the creaminess while enhancing the color and visual appeal of the dish. From a personal cooking experience perspective, using high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can drastically improve the flavor profile, bringing an elevated taste to the pasta. Also, draining the cooked penne and immediately mixing it into the sauce ensures every piece of pasta is evenly coated without sticking together. Covering the pesto chicken with foil after cooking helps the flavors to meld and keeps the chicken warm until serving. This recipe is not only ideal for a weeknight dinner but also impressive enough to serve guests, as it blends familiar flavors with a gourmet twist. Experimenting with fresh basil pesto or adding a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top before serving can add brightness and freshness. For those wanting an extra vegetable boost, sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli could be mixed in or served alongside, making this dish a full and balanced meal. Overall, this recipe is a comforting crowd-pleaser that balances creamy, tangy, and herby notes in every bite.