Pine Nut and Chicken Pasta
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Pine Nut and Chicken Pasta, a creamy and satisfying dish that combines tender slices of chicken, toasted pine nuts, and al dente penne pasta in a luxurious Parmesan and garlic-infused sauce. This easy-to-make recipe features a hint of zesty lemon juice for brightness and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant finish, making it both comforting and elegant. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties, this pasta recipe comes together in just 40 minutes and serves four generous portions. Whether you’re craving a rich, restaurant-style meal or looking to impress with an effortless dish, Pine Nut and Chicken Pasta is a must-try that will delight your taste buds.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup pine nuts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 0.5 cup water
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Toast the pine nuts in the dry skillet, stirring often, for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
Season the chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Stir to combine, then let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until a smooth, creamy sauce forms. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Stir in the toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper, if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired. Enjoy your Pine Nut and Chicken Pasta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
863 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 65.0 g | 83% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.6 g | 108% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 139 mg | 46% | |
| Sodium | 914 mg | 40% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.7 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.2 g | ||
| Protein | 36.5 g | 73% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 252 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 3.5 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 449 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
