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Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful Quick Meal
Introduction
Chicken pesto pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the savory taste of grilled chicken and the aromatic flavors of basil pesto. It’s an ideal recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Here’s how to whip up this tasty meal in no time.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, plus extra for grilling
- Pesto: 1/2 cup, homemade or store-bought
- Pasta: 8 ounces, any type like fusilli, penne, or spaghetti
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup, grated
- Fresh basil: A few leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until thoroughly cooked and golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In the same pot used for the pasta, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, and a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Adjust the consistency as needed, adding more water to thin or cooking off excess moisture on low heat.
- Add the Chicken and Tomatoes:
- Toss the sliced chicken and cherry tomatoes with the pesto pasta. The residual heat from the pasta will warm the tomatoes slightly and integrate the flavors.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to serving dishes. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Homemade Pesto: For an enhanced flavor, consider making your own pesto. Blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a fresh and vibrant sauce.
- Protein Variations: You can substitute chicken with shrimp or keep it vegetarian by adding more vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Chicken pesto pasta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It’s a perfect dish to experiment with different ingredients and adjust to your taste preferences. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.