Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Chicken pesto pasta is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and al dente pasta. This recipe is simple yet elegant, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests. The earthy basil pesto adds a burst of fresh flavor that perfectly complements the tender chicken and pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite.

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon
• Colander
• Tongs

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup prepared pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• ¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for a creamier sauce)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. Cook the Chicken
   While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s cooked through and golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the pesto and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to warm through.
4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
   Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the pesto sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Parmesan and Serve
   Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Presentation Ideas:

• Serve in a wide pasta bowl with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
• Garnish with whole basil leaves or chopped parsley for a fresh look.
• Add a few halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Tips:

• For added flavor, try marinating the chicken in a little pesto before cooking.
• Use homemade pesto if you can, as it adds a vibrant, fresh flavor.
• If you want extra vegetables, stir in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.

This chicken pesto pasta is a quick, flavorful meal that combines creamy pesto with tender chicken and pasta. It’s a comforting, delicious dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a great way to enjoy the fresh taste of pesto in a satisfying meal. Enjoy!