Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta
Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta
What’s great about this recipe
This Pesto Chicken Pasta is a perfect weeknight meal that packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. The freshness of basil pesto, paired with juicy chicken and tender pasta, makes this dish a family favorite. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and can be on your dinner table in about 30 minutes!
How to make Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add the basil pesto to the skillet and mix well. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!
How to serve Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be served with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
How to store Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You may need to add a splash of olive oil when reheating, as the pasta may absorb some of the sauce over time.
Tips to make Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Choose a whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in some pesto before cooking.
- Add in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
Variation
For a lighter version, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. This keeps the dish low-carb while still being delicious!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This pasta can be made ahead of time and stored for quick meals throughout the week.
3. Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Definitely! This recipe also works well with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the basil pesto to the skillet and mix well. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!
