Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a deliciously savory dish that brings together the rich flavors of pesto sauce with the heartiness of tender chicken and al dente pasta. This Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a satisfying, flavorful meal. The pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts, creates a burst of vibrant flavor that elevates the pasta and chicken to new heights. Whether you’re using store-bought pesto or making your own from scratch, this dish is sure to be a hit!

This recipe combines all the best components of a comforting pasta dish: juicy chicken, aromatic pesto, and a great texture from the pasta. It’s customizable, allowing you to add extra vegetables, substitute ingredients, or adjust the flavor to your preference. Chicken Pesto Pasta is also easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe when you need a meal that’s both quick and satisfying.

In this recipe, we will guide you step by step through creating a mouthwatering Chicken Pesto Pasta that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, this dish is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Quick and Easy: This dish is simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and a short amount of cooking time.
• Packed with Flavor: The pesto sauce is full of fresh, herby flavors that are balanced perfectly with the chicken and pasta.
• Customizable: You can modify this recipe to suit your tastes by adding more vegetables, using different types of pasta, or experimenting with different pesto variations.
• Versatile: Chicken Pesto Pasta can be served warm, cold, or as a meal prep option, making it a great dish for any time of year.
• Healthy and Satisfying: With lean chicken, fresh ingredients, and flavorful pesto, this dish is nutritious and filling without being heavy.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 3-6g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Pesto Pasta:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g)
• 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade, see recipe below)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for garnish)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Homemade Pesto (optional):

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for extra brightness)

Special Equipment

• Large Pot: Used for boiling the pasta. A large pot ensures that the pasta has enough space to cook evenly and not stick together.
• Skillet or Pan: For cooking the chicken breasts and combining everything together at the end.
• Blender or Food Processor: If making homemade pesto, a blender or food processor will help blend the ingredients into a smooth sauce.
• Tongs or Pasta Spoon: For stirring and serving the pasta once it’s cooked.
• Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese, which will add more flavor than pre-shredded versions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the cooked pasta aside and toss it with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the chicken to sear nicely. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the chicken is golden brown on both sides. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips or cubes.

3. Prepare the Pesto (If Making Homemade)

If you’re making homemade pesto, now is the time to prepare it. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse a few times until everything is roughly chopped. With the processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a brighter, tangier pesto, add the juice of half a lemon. Set the pesto aside.

4. Combine Pasta and Pesto

In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add the cooked pasta and the pesto. If the pesto is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce.

5. Add Chicken to the Pasta

Once the pasta and pesto are combined, add the sliced or cubed chicken to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Heat everything together for another minute to ensure the chicken is warm and evenly mixed in with the pasta.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once everything is mixed together, it’s time to serve! Plate the pasta, and top it with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and cherry tomatoes for an added pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy this delicious and flavorful Chicken Pesto Pasta!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Use Fresh Pesto: Fresh pesto will yield the best flavor, but you can also use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time. Opt for a high-quality brand for the most authentic flavor.
• Chicken Variations: You can use other cuts of chicken, such as chicken thighs, if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the chicken.
• Pasta Substitutes: This dish works well with many types of pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, farfalle, or fusilli. Choose your favorite or what you have on hand.
• Add Veggies: For an added boost of nutrients and flavor, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers to the dish. These can be tossed in with the pasta or added to the chicken as it cooks.
• Toast the Nuts: Toasting the pine nuts (or walnuts) for the pesto gives it an extra layer of depth and flavor. Simply toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden.
• Cheese Choices: While Parmesan is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor.
• Leftovers: If you have leftovers, this dish can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or olive oil.

Variations of Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta: For a creamier version of this dish, you can add a few tablespoons of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the pesto sauce as you mix it with the pasta. This will create a richer, smoother sauce.
• Pasta Salad Version: If you’re looking for a cold version, turn this dish into a pasta salad. Simply let the pasta cool and toss it with the pesto, chicken, and additional ingredients like roasted vegetables, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes. Chill in the fridge for a refreshing, no-cook meal.
• Spicy Chicken Pesto Pasta: Add some heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes into the pesto or adding some sliced fresh jalapeños to the pasta before serving.
• Chicken Pesto with Veggies: Enhance the dish by adding sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken breasts instead of pan-searing them. The charred flavor pairs beautifully with the bright, herbaceous pesto.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Pesto Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent it from drying out.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery loaf of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to Chicken Pesto Pasta. The crispy, garlicky bread is great for soaking up any extra pesto sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pesto pasta. Add arugula, spinach, or baby kale for a peppery kick.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve your Chicken Pesto Pasta with roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini. The caramelized veggies complement the pesto’s freshness and add depth to the meal.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the bright flavors of the pesto. If you prefer red wine, a light red like Pinot Noir will work well.

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Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a flavorful, versatile, and satisfying dish that combines the best of Italian cuisine in one simple meal. With tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and pasta, it’s a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a special family gathering. Whether you’re using homemade pesto or store-bought, this dish is easy to make, and the flavors will have you coming back for more. With plenty of options for customization, you can make it as simple or as extravagant as you like. Enjoy!