This creamy and vibrant pesto chicken pasta dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked spaghetti around your fork, each strand coated in rich, green basil goodness, topped with tender chunks of juicy chicken that make your taste buds sing. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making everyone in the house suddenly very interested in dinner—it’s like magic.
This meal isn’t just food; it’s a memory-making machine. I remember the first time I whipped this up for a casual weeknight dinner. My children were skeptical at first, but after one bite, they were all singing my praises as if I had just won an award in culinary arts. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays or when you want to impress someone without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful pesto chicken pasta is quick to prepare and packed with flavor that pleases everyone
- Its vibrant colors make it eye-catching on any dinner table
- You can easily modify the recipe with seasonal veggies or protein options based on what you have available
- Plus, it’s so simple that even your kids can help out!
I remember serving this dish during a family gathering and watching as everyone went back for seconds. It was a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 breasts for a satisfying meal; adjust based on your family size.
- Pasta of Your Choice: Spaghetti or penne works perfectly; opt for whole wheat for added nutrition.
- Fresh Basil Pesto: Use store-bought or homemade; either way adds robust flavor that elevates the dish.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness; halved tomatoes look stunning atop your pasta.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan just before serving for the best flavor; it makes all the difference!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances richness and helps everything blend together beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate natural flavors; don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot and cooking your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Add Cherry Tomatoes: Toss halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet once the chicken is ready. Sauté until they soften slightly and release their juices into the pan.
Mingle with Pesto: Lower heat and add generous dollops of fresh basil pesto to your skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly while enjoying that aromatic scent wafting through your kitchen.
Toss with Pasta: Drain your cooked pasta but reserve a bit of water. Combine it with the chicken mixture in the skillet and add reserved water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your vibrant creation, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan on top, then sit back as everyone raves about your culinary masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This pesto chicken pasta is not only creamy and delicious; it’s also quick to make
- The vibrant colors and aromatic basil make it a feast for both the eyes and taste buds
- Plus, it makes an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing your chicken for maximum flavor, followed by cooking the pasta while preparing the creamy pesto sauce. This sequence ensures everything is ready at the same time, making your dinner party feel like a breeze.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add seasonal veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes. You can also experiment with different nuts in your pesto for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the pasta from becoming mushy and ensure creamy goodness remains intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to season your chicken well before cooking
- Don’t skip the resting time post-cooking; it keeps the moisture locked in
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving!
Cooking this delightful pesto chicken pasta always reminds me of my sister’s wedding reception when I prepared it for family and friends. The compliments kept pouring in, and I realized that sometimes simple recipes create the best memories!
FAQ
What can I use instead of basil for pesto chicken pasta?
Consider using spinach or arugula as tasty alternatives to traditional basil in your pesto.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian option.
How do I prevent overcooked pasta?
Aim for al dente texture by following package instructions closely and tasting before draining.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and fresh cherry tomatoes for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti or penne)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Combine with Pesto: Reduce the heat and stir in the basil pesto, mixing well with the tomatoes.
- Toss with Pasta: Add drained pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for creaminess.
- Serve: Plate your pasta and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before enjoying!
Notes
- For added nutrition, consider using whole wheat pasta.
- Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or chickpeas for a delightful variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg