Description
This Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe is a quick and flavorful dinner idea that combines tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and your favorite pasta. Perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or a cozy night in. Packed with protein, bursting with fresh basil flavor, and easy to make in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta
2 chicken breasts
1/2 cup basil pesto
2 tbsp olive oil
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove and let rest, then slice.
3. In the same skillet, add cooked pasta, basil pesto, and a splash of pasta water. Stir well to coat.
4. Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
5. If using cherry tomatoes, add them in and cook for 1 minute just to warm them through.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated parmesan and extra basil if desired.
Notes
Use homemade or store-bought pesto depending on time and preference.
Add a splash of milk or water when reheating leftovers to restore creaminess.
You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or rotisserie chicken for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg