Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful and Easy Meal
This Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's quick to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is easily customizable to your preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Let's dive into the details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities depending on your needs.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 8 ounces pasta: Your favorite pasta shape will work! Penne, rotini, or farfalle are all excellent choices.
- 1/2 cup pesto: Store-bought or homemade – the choice is yours! Basil pesto is classic, but you can experiment with sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto as well.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory note to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced for extra flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Optional additions: Cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Stir in the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and/or fresh basil leaves (if using). Optional additions like cherry tomatoes or spinach can be added at this stage as well.
Tips and Variations:
- Homemade Pesto: If you're feeling ambitious, making your own pesto is a rewarding experience! It's surprisingly easy and tastes much fresher than store-bought varieties.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie Boost: Add some sauteed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a more nutritious meal.
- Creamy Pesto Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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This Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe is a surefire winner! Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a perfect go-to meal. Enjoy!
