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Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

Pesto chicken pasta is a simple and economical dish that combines the rich flavours of basil pesto with tender chicken and pasta. Originating from Italian cuisine, pesto sauce is traditionally made using fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s believed that the recipe for pesto has been around for centuries, with its earliest forms dating back to ancient Rome. While the sauce has undergone various changes over the years, its classic taste remains popular worldwide.

This meal will become a staple in your household due to its versatility and ease of preparation. The addition of chicken will provide a good source of protein, while the pasta offers a hearty base that satisfies even the hungriest appetites. It’s a quick and easy meal that brings the taste of Italy to your kitchen, perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual lunch when you are in a rush.

Pesto Chicken Pasta Tips

  • Use fresh basil for the pesto sauce if possible to get the best flavour. Sometimes fresh basil is not available so premade will do. 
  • Cook the pasta until it’s al dente (slightly firm) to avoid overcooking, while you wait for the family to get ready.
  • Add a bit of pasta water to the sauce to help coat the pasta better.
  • Toast the pine nuts lightly to enhance their nuttiness.
  • If pine nuts are too expensive, substitute them with (chopped) walnuts or almonds.
  • Use a good quality Parmesan cheese as the strong flavour is best. Use pre-grated Parmesan cheese to save time, if fresh grated is not available.
  • Add the pasta only when the salted water has started to boil. You must stir the pasta in the water occasionally to stop it from sticking to the bottom.
  • you can pick your own basil and keep it fresh in water ready to be used any time you wish.

Ingredients

  • 4-5 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, diced into 2 cm cubes
  • 500 g pasta (penne or spaghetti)
  • 5 tablespoons pesto sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 clove garlic, finely chopped
  • 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
  • Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta once the water is boiling. 
  2. Cook the pasta according to the instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping a cup of the pasta water for later use.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
  4. Add the chopped garlic to the frying pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes, making sure the garlic does not burn.
  5. Stir in the pesto sauce and a small splash of the reserved pasta water to create a smooth sauce. 
  6. Mix well to coat the chicken.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the frying pan and toss everything together. Cook for an extra 1-2 minutes to let the flavours combine.
  8. Serve the pasta on plates, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, sliced cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy this simple and tasty pesto chicken pasta for a quick meal that’s sure to please. For another easy recipe, try our Creamy Garlic Prawns with White Wine and Parmesan.

For more information on buying the right pasta, we recommend you review the following; Pasta Review.

 

Joana Camato

Joana Camato

Busy mom of 2 juggling customer service, SEO analysis, writing, and content management! When I'm not wrangling words or kids, I love getting lost in a good book, whipping up something delicious, or exploring new places.

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