Chicken Pesto Pasta is a fantastic meal that combines the rich, herby flavors of pesto with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. The best part? It’s versatile—you can use store-bought pesto or make your own for that extra burst of freshness.
This dish is vibrant, flavorful, and requires only a few ingredients, making it a go-to for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Chicken Pesto Pasta?
The combination of grilled or sautéed chicken with the nutty, garlicky goodness of pesto creates a perfectly balanced meal. The pesto’s bright flavors are complemented by the richness of Parmesan cheese, while the chicken adds a satisfying protein. The pasta acts as a perfect base to absorb all the flavors, making each bite irresistible.
Ingredients:
For this easy chicken pesto pasta recipe, you’ll need the following:
12 oz. pasta (penne, fusilli, or any short pasta works well)
1 lb. chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for added freshness)
2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh basil (for garnish)
For homemade pesto (optional):
2 cups fresh basil leaves
¼ cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ cup olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10–12 minutes, until al dente.
Drain the pasta, reserving about ¼ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown and fully cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into bite-sized strips or cubes.
3. Make the Pesto (Optional):
If you’re making pesto from scratch, place the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt in a food processor.
Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Pesto:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the cooked pasta, pesto, and a small splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in pesto.
Gently stir in the sliced chicken. If you’re using cherry tomatoes, add them now for a burst of color and freshness.
5. Serve:
Plate the chicken pesto pasta and garnish with toasted pine nuts, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Pesto Pasta:
Use fresh, quality ingredients: If possible, make your pesto with fresh basil and Parmesan. The flavor difference is noticeable, and it really makes the dish shine.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente ensures that it maintains a firm texture and holds up well to the sauce.
Customize your dish: Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or leave it out for a vegetarian version.
Add lemon zest or juice: For a little extra brightness, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the finished dish or add lemon zest to the pesto.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s light yet satisfying, bursting with the freshness of basil pesto and tender chicken. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a special event, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete, balanced meal!
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