Delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Meal
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful basil pesto, and al dente pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a burst of taste with minimal effort. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to give Chicken Pesto Pasta a try:
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Delicious Flavor: The creamy basil pesto perfectly complements the juicy chicken and fresh cherry tomatoes.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish with different types of pasta and adds-ins.
- Family-Friendly: The familiar flavors of chicken and pasta make this a dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta
Follow these simple steps for a delectable Chicken Pesto Pasta:
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound or 450g)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Directions
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
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Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
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Sauté the Tomatoes: In the same skillet with the drippings, add halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
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Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low, add the cooked pasta, basil pesto, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the pasta is coated in the pesto.
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Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta
Serve your Chicken Pesto Pasta in a large bowl or on individual plates. For an elegant touch, garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Pairing it with a light salad and crusty bread makes for a complete meal.
How to Store Chicken Pesto Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you may want to add a splash of olive oil or additional pesto for moisture.
Tips to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente to ensure the best texture.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with roasted vegetables or chickpeas.
- Different Proteins: You can use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
- Alternative Pasta: Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used for a healthier version.
FAQs
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Can I make my own pesto?
Yes, homemade pesto is easy to make using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese blended together. -
Can I prepare Chicken Pesto Pasta in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and pesto in advance. However, it’s best to cook the pasta just before serving for optimal texture. -
Can I freeze Chicken Pesto Pasta?
While it’s possible to freeze, the texture of the pasta may change upon reheating. For the best results, it’s recommended to store the components separately and assemble them when ready to eat.
Enjoy cooking this delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe, and love every bite of this delightful dish!
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet with the drippings, add halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
- Reduce the heat to low, add the cooked pasta, basil pesto, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the pasta is coated in the pesto.
- Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
