When you're looking for a quick and delicious meal, homemade chicken pesto pasta strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. This chicken pesto pasta recipe will guide you through creating a restaurant-quality dish right in the comfort of your own kitchen, using everyday ingredients that you might already have at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the key ingredients for your chicken pesto pasta recipe:
- 400g dried pasta (fusilli, penne, or any short pasta works well)
- 2 large chicken breasts or the equivalent in thighs
- 1 cup of basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1⁄4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 lemon
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Steps to Cook Chicken Pesto Pasta
Follow these steps to make an effortlessly delicious chicken pesto pasta:
- Prepare the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest before slicing into strips or cubes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add a drizzle of olive oil to the same pan if needed, then add the cooked pasta.
- Pour in the pesto, using the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce as needed. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Return the sliced chicken to the pan, ensuring it’s well combined with the pesto and pasta.
- Final Touches:
- Squeeze some more lemon juice over the pasta for a zesty finish.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted.
- If using, scatter cherry tomatoes over the top and stir gently to incorporate or allow to warm slightly.
🍝 Note: Don't skimp on the lemon; it's the key to bringing out the flavors in this dish. Also, if you're making homemade pesto, remember it's vibrant with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your chicken pesto pasta recipe, consider these serving suggestions:
- Garnish with Basil: A few fresh basil leaves not only add color but also contribute to the overall flavor profile.
- Extra Parmesan: Serve with additional Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over the top.
- Salad on the Side: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Crisp Wine: A light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the pesto.
In sum, this easy chicken pesto pasta recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors, proving that gourmet meals don't always require extensive time or rare ingredients. With the basics of pasta, chicken, and pesto, you can whip up a meal that's not only satisfying but also impressive enough for guests or a special evening. By tweaking the amount of lemon, playing with different pastas, or adding in your favorite veggies, you can customize this dish to your heart's content.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
+
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken or replacing it with options like roasted vegetables, tofu, or even chickpeas for added protein.
How long does homemade pesto last?
+
Homemade pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep it from turning brown, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil before sealing.
Is there a way to reduce the fat content in this recipe?
+
You can use less oil in your pesto by incorporating more basil or spinach into the mix, and consider using grilled chicken instead of pan-fried for less fat.
