This Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a wonderful mix of tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts, all coated in tasty basil pesto. It’s like a hug on a plate!
Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish comes together in no time. I love how the pine nuts add a nice crunch—just don’t forget to toast them for extra flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle (bow-tie) is fun and great for holding sauce, but you can swap it for any pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
Chicken: I prefer chicken breasts for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using rotisserie chicken or cooked shredded chicken instead. It’s a huge time saver!
Pesto: Store-bought basil pesto is easy and quick, but if you have time, making fresh pesto with basil, garlic, nuts, and parmesan is so rewarding! For a nut-free version, you can use sunflower seed butter or just leave them out.
Pine Nuts: These add a wonderful crunch, but if they’re hard to find or too pricey, toasted walnuts or even slivered almonds work well as substitutes.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting pasta just right is key for this dish! Here’s how to nail it:
- Always use a big pot of salted water to boil your pasta—it should taste a bit like the sea. This brings out the flavor!
- Follow the package instructions, but check the pasta a minute or two before the time is up. You want it al dente, meaning it has a little bite to it.
- When you drain it, save a cup of pasta water. This starchy water can help blend the sauce if it turns out a little too thick later on.
Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Sauce & Veggies:
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (a mix of red and yellow), halved
- 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
For The Topping:
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! With 10 minutes for prep and just 20 minutes for cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to drain the pasta and set it aside when it’s ready!
2. Searing the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, sprinkle some salt and pepper on the chicken pieces. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s golden brown and cooked through. When finished, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing the Tomatoes:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to blister and soften a bit, adding lots of great flavor!
4. Toasting the Pine Nuts:
While the tomatoes are cooking, take a small dry pan and add the pine nuts. Toast them over medium heat, shaking the pan often until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning! Set them aside when they’re done.
5. Combining Everything:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the tomatoes, then toss in the drained pasta and pour over the basil pesto. Gently mix everything until it’s well combined and warmed through.
6. Serving:
Plate your vibrant pasta and sprinkle it with the toasted pine nuts and some fresh parsley if you’re using it. Serve immediately, and feel free to add extra pesto or grated Parmesan cheese on top for even more flavor!
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful pasta that’s quick to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought basil pesto is a fantastic time-saver and works perfectly in this dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own pesto using fresh basil, nuts, garlic, and Parmesan!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Yes, you can easily replace the chicken with other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked through.
What Can I Use Instead of Pine Nuts?
If you don’t have pine nuts or they’re too pricey, feel free to use slivered almonds, chopped walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a different texture. Just toast them lightly for the best flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or gently warm in a skillet, adding a splash of olive oil or water to restore moisture if needed.
