Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta

This Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta is an easy and delicious meal brimming with fresh ingredients. Juicy chicken, fragrant basil pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a meal that’s bright, vibrant, and full of comforting, homemade flavors. It’s a quick dinner solution for busy nights or when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Total Time: 28 minutes

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Yield: 4 serves

Equipments:

• Large skillet or frypan
• Kitchen tongs
• Large serving bowl

Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta recipe video:

Ingredients:

1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. 12 oz pasta (your favorite)
3. 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
4. 2 tablespoons olive oil
5. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
6. 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
7. 2 cloves garlic, minced
8. Salt and pepper, to taste
9. Fresh basil, for garnish
10. Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Get a big pot of water with some salt in it and bring it to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

As the pasta cooks, sprinkle salt and pepper on the chicken pieces to season them

In a spacious skillet, warm the olive oil on medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Take the chicken out of the skillet and place it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes (Optional)

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

If you’re using cherry tomatoes, toss them in and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, just until they soften and blister slightly. This brings a lively kick of flavor to the dish, though it’s not necessary.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pesto

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and stir in the basil pesto. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the pesto. If the mixture seems a little thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the pesto and the chicken is evenly distributed. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Place the Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color, and a squeeze of lemon juice over the top for brightness if you like. You can also sprinkle a little more Parmesan if you’re feeling extra cheesy.

Tips:

• Homemade Pesto: If you want to make your own pesto, blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Homemade pesto adds an even fresher, richer flavor to the dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and toss in some roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
• Extra Creaminess: For a creamy twist, stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese when mixing the pesto with the chicken.
• Leftovers: This pasta reheats well, so save any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

This Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of fresh basil, savory chicken, and Parmesan will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy with garlic bread or a simple green salad on the side for a complete, delicious meal.

Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta Nutrition Information (per serving)

Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta Health Benefits

1. Lean Protein Boost: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, helping your muscles stay strong and healthy.
2. Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil and pesto are rich in monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
3. Antioxidant Powerhouse: Basil in the pesto is loaded with antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect your cells.
4. Bone Strengthener: Parmesan cheese is a great source of calcium, essential for keeping your bones strong.
5. Immune Support: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties thanks to its natural antibacterial and antiviral compounds.
6. Cholesterol Friendly: The olive oil used helps lower “bad” LDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart problems.
7. Vitamin C Kick: If you include cherry tomatoes, they add a healthy dose of Vitamin C, which promotes a stronger immune system and glowing skin.
8. Energy Fuel: The pasta provides complex carbs, giving your body a steady source of energy.
9. Vision Support: Basil and Parmesan both offer Vitamin A, which supports good eye health and helps maintain clear vision.
10. Blood Pressure Friendly: The potassium in tomatoes and basil may help reduce blood pressure, supporting overall cardiovascular health.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta is fully cooled before storing to keep it fresh.
• Freeze: You can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Let the pasta cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To prevent mushy tomatoes, freeze them separately from the pasta and chicken.

Reheat & Reuse Instructions

Reheating (Stovetop):

• Add a little water or broth to the pasta to keep it from drying out.
• Warm over low to medium heat in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s heated all the way through.

Reheating (Microwave):

• Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes.
• Stir and continue heating in 30-second intervals until the pasta is warmed to your liking.

Reuse Ideas

• Pasta Bake: Transfer your leftovers into a baking dish, sprinkle some extra Parmesan and mozzarella on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until it’s bubbling and golden.
• Pasta Salad: Mix cold leftover pasta with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a refreshing, quick pasta salad.
• Wraps: Use the leftover chicken and pesto pasta as filling for a wrap, adding lettuce, cucumber, and a smear of hummus for a light and satisfying lunch.

FAQ’s

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