Looking for a delightful meal that’s both quick and satisfying? Chicken pesto pasta combines tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner gathering, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure!
Ingredients
– 2 cups pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
– 1/2 cup basil pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 480
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one plate of chicken pesto pasta.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add sliced cooked chicken to the skillet and warm through.
5. Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water.
6. In the skillet, add the pesto to the chicken and stir to combine.
7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the pesto mixture.
8. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until creamy.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese and pine nuts.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cooked chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Whole grain pasta can replace regular pasta for a healthier choice. Additionally, homemade pesto can be used for a fresher flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon enhances the meal’s flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. This dish can be frozen; however, the texture of the pasta may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture.
– Not saving pasta water may lead to a dry dish.
– Skipping the seasoning can affect the overall flavor.
– Using a low-quality pesto can diminish taste.
– Cooking at too high a heat can burn the chicken.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh basil for the best pesto flavor.
– Toast pine nuts before adding them for extra crunch.
– Experiment with different pasta shapes.
– Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto is a convenient option and works well in this recipe.
What type of pasta is best for chicken pesto pasta?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal, but feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding more vegetables or chickpeas.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto or mix in some spicy sausage for heat.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Chicken pesto pasta is a delightful dish that marries the richness of chicken and the vibrant flavors of pesto. Quick to prepare and highly customizable, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this recipe with loved ones and savor each delicious bite!
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta spaghetti or linguine
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast sliced
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced cooked chicken to the skillet and warm through.
- Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water.
- In the skillet, add the pesto to the chicken and stir to combine.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the pesto mixture.
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese and pine nuts.
Nutrition
