If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor, chicken pesto pasta is your go-to dish. This vibrant recipe combines tender chicken with fragrant basil pesto, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s not just simple to make; it’s also incredibly satisfying and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Ready to dive into a bowl of bliss? Let’s get started!
Ingredients needed
To whip up a delightful chicken pesto pasta, you’ll need fresh ingredients that bring vibrant flavors to life.
Ingredient
Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2-3 pieces
Pasta (spaghetti or penne)
12 oz (340 g)
Pesto sauce
1 cup
Cherry tomatoes
1 cup
Fresh spinach
2 cups
Olive oil
2 tbsp
Salt
To taste
Black pepper
To taste
Garlic cloves
2-3 cloves
Fresh basil leaves
2 cups
Pine nuts
1/4 cup
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (plus extra for garnish)
Reserved pasta water
1 cup
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay juicy.
Next, grab your favorite pasta. Spaghetti or penne works beautifully. Choose whole wheat for a healthier twist.
Pesto is the star of this dish; store-bought is convenient, but homemade offers unmatched freshness. For the homemade version, you’ll need basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
Don’t forget to add cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and spinach for color and nutrients. Seasonings like salt and pepper round out the dish perfectly.
Gather these essentials before diving into cooking!
Step-by-step instructions
Credit: @Natashaskitchen
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it into bite-sized pieces.
Drain your pasta, reserving a cup of starchy water. Return it to the pot, then mix in homemade or store-bought pesto sauce. Stir well to coat every strand.
Add sliced chicken on top and toss gently. If needed, use reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency for a creamy finish. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Tips for making the perfect chicken pesto pasta
To achieve the perfect chicken pesto pasta, start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh basil makes a world of difference in flavor. If possible, prepare your own pesto using ripe pine nuts and premium olive oil.
Cook your pasta al dente to ensure it retains some bite. This texture enhances the overall experience when mixed with creamy pesto.
When sautéing chicken, season it generously with salt and pepper before cooking. A quick sear locks in moisture and provides a delicious crust that complements the dish beautifully.
Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! Adding a splash can help loosen up thick sauce while creating a silky finish on your dish.
Ingredient
Quantity
Calories (approx.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2-3 pieces
330-400 kcal
Pasta (spaghetti or penne)
12 oz (340 g)
330 kcal
Pesto sauce
1 cup
400 kcal
Cherry tomatoes
1 cup
30 kcal
Fresh spinach
2 cups
14 kcal
Olive oil
2 tbsp
240 kcal
Salt
To taste
0 kcal
Black pepper
To taste
0 kcal
Garlic cloves
2-3 cloves
10-15 kcal
Fresh basil leaves
2 cups
10 kcal
Pine nuts
1/4 cup
200 kcal
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (plus extra for garnish)
215 kcal
Reserved pasta water
1 cup
0 kcal
Total (approximate): 1,800 – 2,000 kcal for the entire recipe, serving 3-4 people.
Each serving would roughly contain 450 – 670 kcal depending on the portion size. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves for added color and taste. These little touches elevate your chicken pesto pasta from good to extraordinary.
Variations and substitutions preferences
Chicken pesto pasta is versatile, allowing for creative twists to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a different protein, try shrimp or grilled vegetables instead of chicken. Both options add unique flavors.
For those who prefer a lighter meal, swap traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or whole grain spaghetti. This keeps the dish healthy while maintaining its deliciousness.
You can also customize the pesto. Try using sun-dried tomatoes or arugula in place of basil for an unexpected zing.
If you’re dairy-free, substitute regular cheese with nutritional yeast or cashew cream to maintain that creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.
Feel free to experiment with various nuts in your pesto too—walnuts and pecans provide distinct tastes that elevate the dish even further. Each variation offers something new and exciting to enjoy!
Serving suggestions and pairing options
When it comes to serving chicken pesto pasta, presentation is everything. Consider plating the dish in a large, shallow bowl for a rustic feel. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of pine nuts for an added crunch.
Pair this delightful pasta with a crisp side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette can brighten up your meal. The freshness contrasts beautifully with the richness of the pesto.
Wine lovers will appreciate a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc alongside their chicken pesto pasta. These wines complement the flavors without overpowering them.
For those who enjoy bread, some warm garlic bread on the side adds texture and flavor. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate!
Don’t forget about dessert; something light like sorbet could be just what you need to finish off this delicious meal perfectly!
Conclusion
Chicken pesto pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of basil, garlic, and tender chicken. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Experimenting with different ingredients can elevate this dish even further. Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives to give it an extra kick.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can customize it based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Don’t forget about presentation! A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves can turn a simple meal into something restaurant-worthy.
Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy every bite of your homemade creation!
FAQs
Chicken pesto pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of basil and garlic, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also incredibly satisfying.
When creating your own chicken pesto pasta masterpiece, you might have some questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked queries:
What type of pasta works best for this recipe? Any variety can work well! However, penne or fusilli tend to hold onto the sauce better.
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade? Absolutely! Store-bought pesto saves time and still tastes delicious in this dish.
Is there a vegetarian version? Definitely! You can substitute grilled vegetables or chickpeas for chicken while keeping everything else the same.
How do I store leftovers? Place any leftover chicken pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last about 3-4 days.
Can I freeze chicken pesto pasta? Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the fresh toppings like cheese or herbs. Thaw before reheating for optimal taste!
This flavorful meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and make it your own!
