Imagine diving into a plate of Chicken Pesto Pasta, where every twirl of the fork reveals a vibrant medley of flavors. The creamy pesto clings to perfectly cooked pasta, while tender chicken adds a juicy bite that dances on your palate. creamy Caesar salad pasta tender roasted orange chicken This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. Mediterranean lentil salad.
I remember the first time I made Chicken Pesto Pasta for my family. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and suddenly, dinner turned into a joyful feast filled with laughter and compliments. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into a delightful occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special gathering with friends. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Pesto Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its fresh flavors and colorful ingredients make it visually stunning
- You can easily customize it with vegetables or proteins based on your preferences
- It’s versatile enough to serve warm or chilled as a pasta salad
My best friend declared this was better than her favorite restaurant’s version during our last dinner party!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 breasts for juiciness; adjust based on hunger levels in your household.
- Pasta (Fusilli or Penne): These shapes hold onto sauces beautifully; opt for whole wheat for added nutrients.
- Fresh Basil Pesto: Homemade is best, but store-bought works too. Look for vibrant green jars.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness adds bursts of flavor; select plump ones for optimal juiciness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated enhances flavor significantly; avoid pre-grated versions if possible.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for a robust flavor; it also helps in sautéing chicken to perfection.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t skip these little guys!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once bubbling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and let it shimmer. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the pan.
Add Flavorful Ingredients: Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 6-8 minutes per side. It should be juicy inside and have an irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Toss in Vegetables: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet around the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. They should soften slightly but retain their shape—like little flavor bombs waiting to explode.
Mix with Pesto and Pasta: Drain cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet. Stir in your fresh basil pesto until everything is beautifully coated and vibrant.
Serve with Parmesan: Plate your Chicken Pesto Pasta and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Your guests will be fighting over who gets the last bite!
Enjoy every forkful of this delightful dish that brings joy not just to your taste buds but also to your heart!
You Must Know
- This Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe brings together a delightful blend of flavors and textures
- The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta create a comforting dish that is visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first in a hot pan, then cook the pasta while preparing the pesto sauce for maximum efficiency and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like cherry tomatoes for extra texture and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh basil for your pesto; it makes all the difference in flavor
- Don’t rush cooking your pasta; al dente is key to a perfect texture
- Remember to reserve some pasta water; it helps bind everything together beautifully
Cooking this Chicken Pesto Pasta always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone enjoyed seconds (or thirds).
FAQ
How do I make homemade pesto for Chicken Pesto Pasta?
Blend fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil until smooth. crispy garlic parmesan potatoes.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto is convenient and can save you time in preparation.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne or fettuccine are ideal choices because they hold sauce well.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy basil pesto, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta that creates an unforgettable flavor experience. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the freshness of cherry tomatoes and the richness of Parmesan cheese, making it a favorite for family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add tomatoes: In the last few minutes of cooking, add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet around the chicken until softened.
- Combine: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with chicken and tomatoes. Stir in fresh basil pesto until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve: Plate your Chicken Pesto Pasta and top generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 400g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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