Penne with Chicken and Pesto

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (120ml) pesto sauce
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the pesto and cream and bring to a simmer. Simmer until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked penne and stir to combine. Cook for another minute or two to heat through. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

• This dish is a great way to use up leftover chicken.
• You can substitute chicken with shrimp or any other type of protein.
• To make it even creamier, add a splash of half and half or cream.