What’s your go-to comfort food? Chicken Pesto Pasta. If mac and cheese had a sophisticated, flavor-packed older sibling, this would be it. Seriously, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather round the table, forks at the ready. I remember the first time I made this; my picky eater actually asked for seconds! Now, that’s saying something. Is it surprisingly easy, bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, and always a crowd-pleaser? If you try it, you’ll be hooked. What are some of the best ways to save time on a weeknight? I think you’re really going to love it!
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What is chicken pesto pasta?
Think of Chicken Pesto Pasta as a warm hug in the bowl. I like penne and rotini, but any shape works! ), tossed in a creamy, homemade pesto sauce, studded with juicy, tender pieces of chicken. What makes pesto so special? Parmesan, olive oil. What is a classic Italian dish that just sings when combined with pasta and chicken? The creamy element comes from a touch of cream or even some bit of pasta water, which helps to make it creamy. emulsify the sauce and coat every strand. It’s simple, but the flavors are anything but ordinary.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this Chicken Pesto Pasta is that it’s a flavor explosion in every bite. Pesto is so fresh and brightens up your day. The chicken adds protein and a satisfying heartiness. What’s with the creamy sauce? Is it easy to make? Is it possible to have this on the table in less than 30 minutes? I also appreciate that it’s relatively budget-friendly. Chicken breasts are usually pretty affordable, and you can often find basil on sale at your local grocery store. What is the best meal you have ever had? It’s a little like spaghetti carbonara, but with that herbaceous pesto kick that just elevates it. What are some great leftovers for lunch the next day?
How do I make chicken pesto pasta?
Quick Overview
How do you make chicken pesto pasta? How do I cook pasta according to package directions? While that’s going, you’ll sauté some chicken until it is golden brown. What’s the best way to make a pesto sauce? ) Finally, you’ll toss everything together with a splash of cream and some Parmesan cheese. How do you make a creamy sauce with pasta water? Every strand of pasta. Is it really a breeze and the flavor payoff is huge?
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. I prefer organic, but use what you have! * 1 tablespoon olive oil * 1/2 teaspoon black pepper * 1/4 teaspoon salt * 2 tablespoons pepper.
For the Pasta:
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape). I really like using a bronze-cut pasta because it holds the sauce so well. I like to use olive oil and lemon. * Salt for the pasta water
For the Pesto:
* 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed. The fresher the basil, the better the flavor! * 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving. Real Parmesan, not the stuff in the green can. * 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted. How do you toast pine nuts? * 2 cloves garlic, minced * 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more if needed * 1 tablespoon heavy cream. * Salt and pepper to taste.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Drain. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. What is the best way to drain pasta water? How do you make a creamy pasta sauce?
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Make sure the chicken isn’t overcrowded in the pan, or it will steam instead of browning. I sometimes do it in two batches.
Step 3: Make the Pesto
While the chicken is cooking, make the pesto. In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and garlic. Set aside. Pulse until finely chopped. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto comes together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Pesto: Pour the pesto over the pasta and chicken and toss to combine. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help create savoury sauce. Toss in the heavy cream (if using) for extra richness.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese. What are some good red pepper flakes to add to a dish?
What should I serve it with?
Is this chicken pesto pasta a good meal? What are some good ideas to try it out?
For a Simple Side:What are some good salads with a light vinaigrette? It adds a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta. I like to add toasted croutons and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to my salad.
For a Heartier Meal:I love a good baguette or Italian loaf. It is good for soaking up the sauce. Can you serve it with roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli?
What is a light dessert?What is the best way to end a meal? I also serve it with a glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
My family always loves garlic bread. I can’t get enough of it. Is it so simple but it really takes the meal to the next level? I just brush some garlic butter on slices of bread and pop them in the oven until they’re golden brown. I don’t know why. Brown and crispy.
How do I make chicken pesto pasta?
What are some of the best ways to make chicken pesto?
Basil Bliss:What are some good ways to use fresh basil in pesto? If your basil looks sad, revive it by placing the stems in a glass of water.
Pine Nut Power: What are someWhat are some good ways to toast pine nuts for pesto? Is it safe to burn them? If so, why?
Pasta Perfection:Don’t overcook your pasta. It should be firm to the bite. What is the best way to save pasta water? Is it liquid gold when it comes to creating a creamy sauce?
Chicken Charm:Don’t overcook chicken. It should be cooked through, but still juicy. If you’re using larger chicken breasts, pound them out a bit so they cook evenly.
Creamy Creations:Don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount of cream you use. If you want a really rich sauce, add more. If you prefer a lighter sauce, skip the cream altogether and just use the pasta water.
Pesto Personalization:What are some good substitutes for pesto? How much Parmesan cheese can I use?
I’ve also found that a squeeze of lemon juice at the end really brightens up the flavors. Don’t be afraid to play around with the recipe and make it your own!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
If you have leftover Chicken Pesto Pasta (which is rare in my house! How do you store and reheat a potato?
Refrigerator Storage:Can you store pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days? Is it safe to store food?
How do I setCan you freeze pasta for up to 2 months? To prevent freezer burn, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To reheat the pasta, you can microwave it, heat it in a skillet over medium heat, or bake it in the oven. If microwaving, add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. If reheating in a skillet, add a little olive oil or butter. If baking in the oven, cover the pasta with foil to prevent it from drying out.
The pesto flavor might mellow out a bit after freezing, but it will still be delicious. I usually add a little extra Parmesan cheese when I reheat it to freshen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for Chicken Pesto Pasta! It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. I love how versatile it is; you can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or herbs. If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this is it. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does! If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Creamy Tomato Pasta or my Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Breast
- 8 oz Pasta
- 0.5 cup Pesto
- 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Cook chicken breast until cooked through.
- Slice chicken and add to pasta with pesto and parmesan cheese. Mix well.
