Imagine a plate of Chicken Pesto Pasta steaming in front of you, its vibrant green sauce glistening under the light. The aromas of basil, garlic, and roasted pine nuts mingle together, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge. Greek Ground Chicken Bowls As you twirl that perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, you can feel the silky sauce coating each strand, promising an explosion of flavor with every bite.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use store-bought pesto for Chicken Pesto Pasta?
- What pasta works best with this recipe?
- How can I make this dish vegetarian?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a delightful memory waiting to happen. I remember the first time I made Chicken Pesto Pasta for friends on a cozy Friday night. Laughter filled the air as we savored each bite, blending flavors and stories until we were all full—not just in our bellies but in our hearts too. BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps There’s something magical about gathering around a table with loved ones to enjoy a meal that warms both body and soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Pesto Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions
- The fresh flavors burst in your mouth while looking vibrant and inviting on the plate
- With its versatile ingredients, you can adapt it to suit any dietary needs or preferences
- This dish is not only delicious but also quick to whip up when you’re short on time!
I still hear my friends raving about how they couldn’t get enough of it that night.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Any type works well, but I prefer fettuccine for its ability to hold onto the sauce.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts should do; adjust based on how many mouths you’re feeding.
- Fresh Basil: Use fragrant leaves for authentic pesto flavor; look for vibrant green without blemishes.
- Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted for that rich flavor; they’re essential for traditional pesto.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds depth; avoid pre-grated cheese if you want maximum flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they really amp up the taste profile of your sauce.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness and smoothness in your pesto.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the other flavors in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the pan until golden brown—about 6-7 minutes per side. Salsa Verde Chicken Rice Skillet.
Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Pulse until smooth—add more oil if necessary for creaminess.
Toss Everything Together: Drain pasta and return it to its pot. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add them along with the pesto sauce. Toss everything together gently until coated evenly.
Serve It Up: Plate your Chicken Pesto Pasta and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if desired. Don’t forget to add a few pine nuts for garnish! Enjoy immediately while it’s warm. For more inspiration, check out this creamy chicken marsala pasta recipe.
This Chicken Pesto Pasta is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Each step enriches not just the dish but also creates lasting memories with every shared meal. Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas.
You Must Know
- Chicken Pesto Pasta is not just delicious; it’s a culinary canvas
- Fresh basil mingles with garlic, making every bite aromatic and vibrant
- Perfect for any occasion, this dish can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight savior
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then cook the pasta while preparing the pesto sauce. This method ensures everything finishes at the same time and tastes fresh.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or veggies like zucchini. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to revive its flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid overcooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F
- Always reserve pasta water before draining, as it helps adjust sauce consistency later
- Experiment with different nuts for your pesto; pine nuts are classic but walnuts work beautifully too!
My first attempt at Chicken Pesto Pasta was a chaotic kitchen adventure, but my friends devoured it, leaving me feeling like a culinary rockstar!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pesto for Chicken Pesto Pasta?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto saves time and still delivers great flavor.
What pasta works best with this recipe?
Fusilli or penne are excellent choices, holding onto that delicious pesto sauce perfectly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply replace chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful and vibrant dish that will elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests at special gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a fresh basil pesto, creating an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Slice into strips.
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, blend basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Add more oil if needed for creaminess.
- Combine Everything: In the pot with the drained pasta, add sliced chicken and pesto sauce. Toss gently until evenly coated.
- Serve: Plate your Chicken Pesto Pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan and pine nuts if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1¼ cups)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
