This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a quick and tasty meal. Tender chicken pieces mingle with lovely green pesto and pasta, creating a colorful dish that’s great for any occasion!
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a one-bowl wonder? I usually toss in some extra veggies for a pop of color and crunch. It makes me feel a bit fancy without all the fuss! 😄
This dish is super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. Just cook the pasta, sauté the chicken, mix it all with the pesto, and you’re all set—perfect for hungry bellies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini is great because its twists hold onto the sauce well. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta if you’re looking for something heartier.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook quickly. For a different flavor, try using grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Pesto: Store-bought basil pesto saves time, but homemade is fantastic if you have fresh basil. If you’re out of basil, try using sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a different taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and a juicy burst. If you don’t have them, regular diced tomatoes or some steamed veggies like spinach or bell peppers can do the trick!
How Do You Cook the Chicken Just Right?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut chicken into even, thin strips, so they cook quickly and evenly.
- Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking; this adds flavor right from the start.
- Heat your skillet on medium. Add olive oil before the chicken to ensure it doesn’t stick and gets a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s no longer pink in the center and has a golden color.
Letting the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking also helps to keep it juicy!
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips or bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta takes about 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and the rest cooking it up. It’s a quick and filling meal perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Take the chicken pieces and season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add them to the skillet and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, toss the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened and bursting with flavor.
4. Combine with Pasta and Pesto:
Once the chicken and tomatoes are ready, reduce the heat to low. Add your cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing it in with the chicken and tomatoes. Stir in the basil pesto until everything is evenly coated and warm throughout.
5. Serve It Up:
Transfer the delectable Chicken Pesto Pasta to serving bowls. Add a garnish of fresh basil leaves on top and, if you like, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve it immediately while it’s hot and enjoy every bite!
This dish combines tender chicken, flavorful pesto, and a delightful texture of pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes. It’s as vibrant and delicious as it looks! 🌿🍝
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini with a gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions, as cooking times may vary.
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken Pesto Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil if it looks dry.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
For sure! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the chicken or mix them in with the pasta and pesto for extra nutrients and flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or even grilled vegetables. The flavor of the pesto will still shine, making it a satisfying vegetarian meal!
