Description
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that transports you to Italy with every bite. This recipe combines succulent chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a fresh basil pesto that bursts with flavor. Ideal for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a cozy night in, it’s quick to prepare and easy to customize. Get ready to wow your taste buds with this vibrant and comforting meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 12 oz penne or fusilli pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 4 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Slice into strips.
- 3. In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan until finely chopped. Gradually add olive oil until smooth.
- 4. Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken and pesto sauce in the pot until well coated.
- 5. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - Substitute chicken with shrimp or grilled vegetables for variety. - Add sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness or chili flakes for heat. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.