Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
cut into bite sized pieces
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 12 ounces short pasta
such as farfalle
- 1 cup basil pesto
look for it in the refrigerated section
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
halved
- 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
can also use basil
Directions
- 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt to taste. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
- 2
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat.
- 3
Place the chicken in the pan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 4
Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Add the garlic and Italian seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
- 5
Drain the pasta and pour it into the pan with the chicken. Add the pesto and toss to coat evenly.
- 6
Add the cherry tomatoes and gently fold them into the pasta.
- 7
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and parsley. then serve.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
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About this Recipe
Craving a weeknight meal that’s both incredibly flavorful and on the table in about 30 minutes? This Chicken Pesto Pasta delivers a burst of fresh flavor without the fuss, making it a guaranteed family favorite that always gets rave reviews.
What makes this chicken pesto pasta a standout is its perfect balance: tender sautéed chicken and al dente farfalle pasta coated in vibrant basil pesto. The dish is beautifully brightened by sweet cherry tomatoes and finished with a generous sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese, creating a truly satisfying experience.
You can expect a dish where the savory chicken complements the fragrant basil pesto, creating a rich yet fresh flavor profile. The cherry tomatoes add a delightful pop of sweetness and acidity, cutting through the richness, while the farfalle pasta offers a satisfying chew. It’s a comforting yet light meal that feels special but comes together with surprising ease, promising a delicious bite every time.
For customization, while farfalle is specified, any short pasta like penne or rotini would work beautifully to hold the pesto. If you don't have fresh parsley for the garnish, the recipe notes that fresh basil makes an excellent alternative. You can also adjust the amount of minced garlic to suit your preference for a milder or more assertive garlic presence.
This chicken pesto pasta is ideal for busy weeknights, a quick lunch, or when you need a reliable crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings. Serve it as a complete meal or alongside a simple green salad for extra freshness.