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Spaghetti With Creamy Pesto Alfredo and Grilled Chicken - Comforting, Fresh, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.25 lbs total)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for grilling
  • 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for chicken)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
  • 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2–3/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 tsp lemon zest and 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken: Pat dry. Rub with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and garlic powder. Let sit while you heat the grill pan or outdoor grill.
  2. Grill the chicken: Cook over medium-high heat 5–6 minutes per side, until the thickest part hits 165°F. Rest on a board for 5 minutes, then slice.
  3. Cook the spaghetti: Boil in well-salted water until just shy of al dente. Reserve 3/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
  4. Start the sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  5. Add cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 2–3 minutes to slightly thicken.
  6. Stir in cheese: Reduce heat to low. Whisk in Parmesan until smooth. Add 1/2 cup pasta water to loosen and emulsify.
  7. Pesto and lemon: Stir in pesto, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  8. Toss the pasta: Add drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss until coated. If it seems tight, splash in more pasta water a little at a time until silky.
  9. Finish with chicken: Fold in sliced grilled chicken. Warm through for 1 minute. Serve topped with extra Parmesan and torn basil.