Introduction

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines tender, perfectly cooked chicken with a creamy, herbaceous pesto sauce and al dente pasta. This classic Italian-inspired dish offers a wonderful balance of richness and freshness, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a meal for special occasions. The pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, garlic, parmesan, and pine nuts, adds a beautiful depth of flavor that coats every strand of pasta.

The combination of juicy chicken and the aromatic pesto creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is bound to impress with its bold, fresh flavors. And with the addition of chicken, it offers the protein boost needed for a fulfilling meal.

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Protein: 32g per serving

Able to serve: 4 people

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

For Homemade Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the pesto: If making homemade pesto, combine basil, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until everything is finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water to help thin the sauce if needed.
3. Cook the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
4. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if necessary to help coat the pasta evenly. Add the sliced chicken and toss again to combine.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh basil leaves for added color and flavor. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

• If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto is a great option. Just make sure to select one with high-quality ingredients.
• For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of cream or cream cheese to the pesto.
• Grilled chicken or even rotisserie chicken can also be used for a quicker version of this dish.
• To make it lighter, swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or another low-carb alternative.

Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Pasta is the perfect combination of savory, fresh, and creamy flavors, offering a satisfying meal that’s sure to be a family favorite. The juicy chicken paired with the aromatic pesto and al dente pasta makes for a hearty dish that will leave you feeling full and happy. It’s a great meal to prepare when you want something simple, yet packed with flavor. Enjoy the vibrant taste of this dish and impress your loved ones! Happy cooking!