Chicken Pesto Pasta

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delicious, comforting, and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a vibrant, herbaceous pesto sauce. This Italian-inspired dish is both quick and satisfying, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions. The fresh basil pesto, with its combination of garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil, infuses the chicken and pasta with a burst of flavor. Creamy, savory, and slightly nutty, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for both adults and kids.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet packed with flavor. The homemade or store-bought pesto elevates ordinary pasta into a restaurant-quality meal. Tender chicken pieces and perfectly al dente pasta coated in a rich, garlicky, and nutty sauce make every bite satisfying. Plus, it’s highly versatile—you can add vegetables, swap proteins, or adjust the sauce to your taste. It’s my go-to comfort dish when I want something wholesome, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s the perfect combination of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, all wrapped in a vibrant, aromatic sauce. The freshness of basil, the richness of Parmesan, and the heartiness of chicken make it a balanced meal. It’s also visually appealing and can be adapted for quick weeknight meals or impressive dinner parties. Every bite is flavorful, creamy, and satisfying, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~500–550 kcal
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pesto Sauce:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 2 tbsp cream or cream cheese for a creamier sauce

Optional Add-Ins:

• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Spinach or arugula
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Red pepper flakes for heat

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. 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, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Pesto Sauce:

• In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
• Pulse while slowly adding olive oil until smooth.
• Optional: Add cream or cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.

4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Pesto:

• Return chicken to the skillet over low heat.
• Add cooked pasta and toss with pesto sauce until everything is evenly coated.
• Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

5. Optional Add-Ins:

• Fold in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or other vegetables.
• Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in a bowl or plate, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
• Pair with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for added richness.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh basil for the best flavor; frozen basil works in a pinch.
• Toast pine nuts lightly to enhance their nutty flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to absorb the pesto properly.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
• Pesto can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Variations

1. Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta: Add heavy cream or cream cheese to the pesto for a rich, creamy sauce.
2. Vegetable Pesto Pasta: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
3. Seafood Pesto Pasta: Substitute chicken with shrimp or salmon.
4. Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
5. Spicy Pesto Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
• Freezer: Not recommended for pasta with fresh pesto, as the texture and flavor of basil may degrade. Freeze cooked chicken and pasta separately if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Food processor or blender for pesto
• Mixing spoon or tongs

Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a flavorful, aromatic, and versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. Combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant basil pesto, it’s a balanced and satisfying meal with bright, fresh flavors. Easy to make and endlessly customizable with vegetables, cream, or seafood, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Italian cuisine, quick meals, or vibrant, herbaceous dishes. Every bite is a comforting blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.