Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

When it comes to weeknight dinners, few dishes can compete with the ease and deliciousness of Chicken Pesto Pasta. This recipe brings together succulent chicken pieces, hearty penne pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly blends the flavors of basil pesto and sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is bound to impress. It’s not just tasty; it’s also quick to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy nights.

Chicken Pesto Pasta offers a bright, fresh taste and endless possibilities for personalization. You can adjust the creaminess, spice levels, or even the type of pasta used. What’s more, it’s a colorful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. With simple ingredients that may already be in your pantry, this recipe can become a household favorite in no time. Let’s get into the details of making this delightful meal.

Ingredients about Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

List of ingredients with measurements

To create this savory dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt and 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 store-bought, plus more if desired
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Handful of torn basil leaves for garnish

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’re looking to make some changes based on what you have at home or dietary preferences, here are a few substitutions you can consider:

• For a lighter dish, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier flavor.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta varieties can replace traditional penne pasta.
• Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream can stand in for the heavy cream to lower fat content.
• Store-bought pesto can be swapped for homemade for a fresher taste if you prefer.
• You can replace sun-dried tomatoes with fresh cherry tomatoes during peak season for a vibrant, juicy touch.

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season the chicken

Begin by preparing your chicken. Take a bowl and add the chicken pieces. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning along with a big pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Make sure to toss the chicken thoroughly to coat it evenly with the seasoning. This first step enhances the flavor of the chicken, making it even more delicious once cooked.

Step 2: Cook the pasta

While you season your chicken, fill a medium pot with water and bring it to a boil. Don’t forget to salt the water generously, about 1 tablespoon of salt will do. This step is crucial because it adds flavor to the pasta as it cooks. Once boiling, drop in the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8 to 9 minutes, until it reaches an al dente texture.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

As the pasta cooks, grab a large non-stick skillet and pour in the olive oil. Set the heat to medium-high, and once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook the chicken, tossing occasionally, until it turns golden brown on the outside and thoroughly cooked through—this usually takes about 7 to 8 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 4: Drain the pasta

When your pasta reaches the desired doneness, reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water before draining it. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce later on. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside momentarily.

Step 5: Combine

With your chicken cooked and pasta drained, it’s time to bring everything together. Return the skillet with the chicken to low heat and add the drained pasta. In the same pan, stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix everything well until combined. If it appears too dry, splash in the reserved pasta cooking water a couple of tablespoons at a time until the pasta is beautifully glossy and coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Add the pesto

Once well-combined, turn off the heat and remove the pan from the burner. Stir in the basil pesto until the dish is creamy and vibrant. It’s time to add the finishing touches! Sprinkle some grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, and hand-torn basil leaves over the top. This not only brings flavor but also gives a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately for a delightful meal.

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Best ways to serve Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

When serving Chicken Pesto Pasta, presentation is key. Place a generous helping of the pasta on a plate, ensuring each serving gets a good amount of chicken, sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes. A sprinkle of extra parmesan on the top adds a lovely finishing touch. You can also garnish with additional torn basil leaves for a pop of color.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Pair your pasta with a crisp side salad—mix lettuce with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for balance. Garlic bread or a simple crusty bread would complement the creamy dish beautifully. You could also serve it with a glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio for a more sophisticated touch. For a light dessert, consider a simple fruit salad or sorbet after the richness of the pasta.

How to Store Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Proper storage methods

Storing leftover Chicken Pesto Pasta is quite simple. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the leftovers within 3 to 4 days.

Tips for reheating or freezing

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional cream if needed to revive the sauce. If you wish to freeze the Chicken Pesto Pasta, ensure it is stored in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake in making pasta dishes is overcooking the pasta. Remember to test for doneness at the lower end of the cooking time to ensure it stays slightly firm. Additionally, adding too much heavy cream can make the dish overly rich, so go easy on it initially and adjust as needed.

Helpful tips for better results

For an extra burst of flavor, you can marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for a couple of hours before cooking. Using freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-grated can enhance the flavor and texture of the sauce as well. Lastly, don’t shy away from adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

Variation of Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

Feel free to customize your Chicken Pesto Pasta by adding vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to make it even more nutritious. For a lighter version, you can easily switch the penne for zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spiralized veggies. You might also experiment by swapping chicken for shrimp or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

If you’re looking to make the dish gluten-free, opt for gluten-free penne pasta. For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative and skip the parmesan or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your dish doesn’t seem right, first, make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes adding a bit more salt, a dash of lemon juice, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar can brighten up the flavors. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and pasta a day in advance. Keep them stored separately in the refrigerator and combine with the sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

There are many options for substitution depending on your preferences and available ingredients. Chicken can be replaced with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version. For the pesto, try using arugula or spinach mixed with nuts and olive oil if you don’t have basil on hand.

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is an easy and versatile dish that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. With its straightforward ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll find yourself whipping it up time and again. Enjoy creating your own variations and making it a delightful meal for you and your loved ones!

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