Description
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich basil pesto sauce. This quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be made in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté garlic and chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the cooked chicken and season with salt and black pepper.
Combine ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Pour in the basil pesto and mix well to coat everything evenly. If using, stir in the heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Add tomatoes and cheese: Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For added protein, use grilled chicken instead of diced chicken.
Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit dietary needs.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To make homemade pesto, blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg