When you’re in the mood for something comforting, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, Chicken Pesto Pasta might just be the answer. This dish effortlessly combines tender pieces of chicken with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, aromatic pesto sauce. Whether you’re preparing a lovely weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a delicious meal, Chicken Pesto Pasta is a fantastic choice that never disappoints.
Why We Love This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
There are many reasons why Chicken Pesto Pasta has become a beloved favorite among food enthusiasts. Its versatility is a major highlight. You can easily customize this dish based on your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. By opting for different types of pasta or even incorporating seasonal vegetables, you can keep this meal exciting and fresh.
Additionally, preparing this dish is remarkably straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you will be rewarded with a restaurant-quality meal that can accommodate different dietary needs. It caters to both busy weeknights and special occasions, making it a go-to option for many.
The rich, herbaceous notes of the pesto meld beautifully with the creamy sauce and savory chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Plus, you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those who love to cook but may be short on time.
Now, let’s dive into what you will need to create this phenomenal dish.
Ingredients for Chicken Pesto Pasta
Before you head to the kitchen, gather all the ingredients to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Below is a list of everything you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces penne pasta, preferably with ridges
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained if packed in oil
- 1/2 cup basil pesto, homemade or quality store-bought
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- A handful of torn basil leaves, for garnish
Make sure to check your pantry for these ingredients to ensure you have everything on hand before you start cooking.
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to bring the magic to your kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you to your delicious plate of Chicken Pesto Pasta.
- Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning your pieces of chicken with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. This will infuse the chicken with flavors from the get-go.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and toss in the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and no longer pink in the center. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, followed by the parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir the mixture until the cheese melts and the ingredients are combined blissfully.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water. Add the cooked chicken and the drained pasta to the skillet. Gently combine everything, adding the reserved pasta water as necessary until you achieve a glossy sauce.
- Finish with Pesto: Turn off the heat and stir in the basil pesto. This is where all the vibrant flavor comes to life. Give it a taste and adjust with more salt or pepper, if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, top your dish with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, and a handful of fresh torn basil leaves.
Serve this delicious meal while it’s still warm, and prepare to enjoy every bite.
How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta
Presentation is key when it comes to a dish like Chicken Pesto Pasta. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it beautifully:
- Plating: Use a large serving bowl or individual plates. For an inviting presentation, twirl the pasta with a fork or tongs to create a nest-like appearance.
- Garnishing: A handful of torn basil leaves adds freshness and a pop of color. You may also want to sprinkle additional parmesan cheese as a finishing touch.
- Pairing: This dish works beautifully alongside a simple side salad, perhaps a refreshing arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, to balance out the richness of the pasta.
- Serving Temperature: Chicken Pesto Pasta is best served hot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while the cream stays velvety.
Your guests or family will love not just the taste but also the visual appeal of your Chicken Pesto Pasta.
Expert Tips for Chicken Pesto Pasta
To elevate your Chicken Pesto Pasta experience even further, consider these expert tips:
- Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality olive oil and fresh pesto. This will significantly enhance the flavors of your dish.
- Pasta Cooking Water: Remember to reserve some pasta cooking water. It’s starchy and excellent for adjusting sauce consistency without watering it down.
- Textural Elements: Don’t shy away from adding some toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. A sprinkle on top after serving can add elegance to your dish.
- Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover grilled chicken, this recipe is perfect for repurposing it. Just skip the sautéing step!
- Spice Level: If you love heat, consider adding fresh sliced chili or increasing the red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
Implementing these tips can make a simple dish into an exceptional dining experience.
How to Store Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken Pesto Pasta is not just great when freshly made— it can be stored and enjoyed later. Here’s how to do it correctly:
- Refrigerate: Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For long-term storage, portion the Chicken Pesto Pasta into freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a dash of olive oil or another splash of cream to regain its creamy texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
Proper storage can maintain the flavor and texture of your Chicken Pesto Pasta, allowing you to relive that delicious meal even days later.
Variations of Chicken Pesto Pasta
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to experiment and modify recipes to your taste. Here are some variations you can try with Chicken Pesto Pasta:
- Vegetable Boost: Add seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and color. Sauté them along with the chicken or toss them in at the same stage as the pasta.
- Different Sauces: While pesto is delightful, consider incorporating other sauces, such as Alfredo or marinara, to give the dish a different spin while still keeping it creamy.
- Protein Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp or grilled tofu for a seafood or vegetarian twist.
- Whole Grain Options: Experiment with whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Let your creativity guide you in the kitchen—each variation enhances the experience of this fantastic dish.
FAQs about Chicken Pesto Pasta
Can I use store-bought pesto for Chicken Pesto Pasta?
Absolutely! While homemade pesto is delightful, high-quality store-bought pesto works wonderfully and saves time.
What can I do if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, feel free to use fresh cherry tomatoes or omit them entirely. Both choices will still yield a delicious pasta dish.
Is Chicken Pesto Pasta suitable for freezing?
Yes! Chicken Pesto Pasta can be frozen, making it convenient for meal prep. Just make sure to let it cool before storing in an airtight container.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! Spinach, kale, or broccoli are wonderful additions that will not only enhance flavors but will also increase the nutritional value of your Chicken Pesto Pasta.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re now set to make an unforgettable Chicken Pesto Pasta that’ll delight your senses and those you share it with. Get ready to enjoy this fantastic meal and feel free to explore your culinary creativity in the kitchen!
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta, preferably with ridges
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained if packed in oil
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup basil pesto, homemade or quality store-bought
- A handful torn basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the pieces of chicken with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Cooking
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the seasoned chicken until golden brown and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, add the parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir until cheese melts and ingredients combine.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about one cup of the pasta cooking water. Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta into the skillet, combining everything and adding reserved pasta water as needed for a glossy sauce.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the basil pesto. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired.
Serving
- Serve topped with grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, and torn basil leaves.