Description

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta into a rich meal that bursts with flavor. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. It offers a comforting experience with its creamy texture and aromatic essence, guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 7-10 minutes.
3. Add the Pesto: Reduce heat to low, stir in basil pesto until chicken is well coated.
4. Toss in the Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet with pesto-coated chicken. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
5. Finish with Cheese and Tomatoes: Remove from heat; stir in grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. If desired, mix in halved cherry tomatoes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
Calories: 640
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 67g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation. Enhance flavor with sun-dried tomatoes or red pepper flakes for heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.