Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Indulge in a delectable Italian feast with our quick and easy Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe. This dish combines the classic flavors of fresh basil pesto, tender chicken, and your favorite pasta shape for a satisfying weeknight dinner that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or seeking to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

The secret to this recipe’s success lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. The creamy, vibrant pesto sauce coats each bite of pasta, while the grilled chicken adds a rich, savory element. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil in the pesto brings a burst of flavor to the dish, making it both comforting and exciting to eat. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile—swap out the pasta or use grilled veggies for a lighter option. Ready in no time and packed with flavor, this Chicken Pesto Pasta is perfect for busy evenings or a casual gathering with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights.

2. Packed with Flavor

The fresh basil pesto sauce delivers vibrant, aromatic flavors that elevate the chicken and pasta.

3. Customizable

Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, use different pasta shapes, or add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.

4. Comforting Yet Light

While indulgent, this dish isn’t overly heavy, making it a satisfying yet light meal perfect for any occasion.

5. One-Pot Meal

For easy cleanup, you can prepare everything in one pot, saving you time in both cooking and cleaning.

Ingredients

For the Pesto Sauce:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Garlic cloves
• Pine nuts (or walnuts)
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

For the Chicken and Pasta:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Pasta (such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free pesto with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese, and substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or roasted vegetables.
• Spicy Pesto: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh chili to the pesto for an extra kick.
• Gluten-Free: Swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Chicken and Veggie Combo: Add grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the dish for added color and nutrition.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Sauce

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Pesto

In the same skillet, add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken. Pour in the pesto sauce and toss to coat the pasta and chicken evenly. If needed, add a bit of pasta water to help the sauce coat everything.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the chicken pesto pasta to serving plates and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Basil: For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves. Dried basil will not give the same aromatic result.
• Customize Your Nuts: Pine nuts are traditional for pesto, but feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different twist.
• Chicken Alternatives: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken from the previous day.
• Make Extra Pesto: Double the pesto recipe and store it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great on sandwiches, salads, or as a dip for veggies.

How to Serve

Serve your Chicken Pesto Pasta with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A glass of crisp white wine pairs wonderfully with the flavors of basil and Parmesan.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out.

Freezing:

While pasta can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. For best results, freeze the chicken and pesto separately from the pasta and combine them when reheating.

Reheating:

Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little olive oil or pasta water as needed to help loosen the pesto sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the pesto sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

2. Can I use store-bought pesto?

Store-bought pesto works in a pinch, but making your own fresh pesto really elevates the flavor of the dish.

3. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even grilled steak for a different variation.

4. Can I make this recipe with gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

5. What if my pesto is too thick?

If your pesto is too thick, simply add a bit more olive oil or pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make the recipe vegan by using dairy-free pesto and substituting the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu.

7. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, roasted tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms will make this dish even more flavorful and nutritious.

8. How can I make the pasta spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the pesto or top the dish with sliced fresh chili for an extra kick.

9. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can cook the chicken, pasta, and pesto ahead of time and combine them just before serving.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little olive oil or water to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want a quick yet flavorful dinner. With the vibrant freshness of pesto, tender chicken, and pasta, it’s an easy meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s customizable to suit any preferences, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or impressing your guests, this dish is sure to be a winner!

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