Pesto Chicken Recipe with Pasta

Name: Pesto Chicken Recipe with Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced lengthwise (into cutlets); 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) basil pesto, divided; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1/4 cup dry white wine; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 pint grape tomatoes; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Kosher salt; fresh cracked pepper; Serve with:; julienne cut basil; shaved Parmesan cheese; crushed red pepper flakes; 8 oz. rotini noodles, cooked al dente

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

August 18, 2024

0

121

- Advertisement -

Pesto Chicken Recipe with Pasta

Pesto chicken with pasta is a delightful dish that combines the bright, herbaceous flavors of basil pesto with tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also delivers a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, pesto chicken with pasta is a versatile option that’s sure to please.

- Advertisement -

The Allure of Pesto

Pesto is a classic Italian sauce originating from Genoa in the Liguria region. Traditionally made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto is known for its vibrant green color and intense flavor. The name “pesto” comes from the Italian word “pestare,” which means “to pound” or “to crush,” referring to the traditional method of making the sauce using a mortar and pestle.

- Advertisement -

Pesto’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths. It can be used as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, a topping for grilled meats, or even a dip for bread. When paired with chicken and pasta, pesto adds a burst of flavor that elevates the dish to new heights.

- Advertisement -

Why Pesto Chicken with Pasta?

Pesto chicken with pasta is a harmonious combination of textures and flavors. The tender chicken absorbs the flavors of the pesto, while the pasta serves as a neutral canvas that ties the dish together. The result is a well-balanced meal that’s both comforting and flavorful.

This dish is also highly adaptable. You can customize it to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand in your pantry. Whether you prefer to make your pesto from scratch or use store-bought, the dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Pesto Chicken with Pasta

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

For the Pesto:

Fresh Basil: 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, packed.
Pine Nuts: 1/4 cup of pine nuts (you can also use walnuts or almonds as a substitute).
Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, peeled.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/2 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

For the Chicken:

Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds).
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil for cooking the chicken.

For the Pasta:

Pasta: 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti).
Salt: For the pasta water.
Pasta Water: 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water.

Optional Garnishes:

Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes.
Parmesan Cheese: Additional freshly grated Parmesan for topping.
Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Lemon: Lemon wedges for squeezing over the dish.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Pesto Chicken with Pasta

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making pesto chicken with pasta from start to finish.

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto

Making pesto from scratch is simple and rewarding. The fresh flavors of homemade pesto can elevate your dish to the next level.

1. Toast the Pine Nuts

Begin by toasting the pine nuts to bring out their natural oils and enhance their flavor. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pine nuts, and toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once they’re golden and fragrant, remove them from the heat and let them cool.

2. Blend the Pesto

In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Store the Pesto

Transfer the pesto to an airtight container if not using immediately. Pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep the pesto vibrant and green, you can pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cooking the chicken properly is crucial for achieving tender, juicy meat that complements the pesto sauce.

1. Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add a pinch of Italian seasoning or garlic powder for extra flavor if desired.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

3. Rest and Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

The pasta serves as the base of the dish, and cooking it properly is key to a successful meal.

1. Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Al dente means the pasta is cooked but still has a slight firmness in the center when bitten.

2. Reserve Pasta Water

Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can be used to help emulsify the sauce and ensure it coats the pasta evenly.

3. Drain the Pasta

Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Step 4: Combine the Pesto, Chicken, and Pasta

Bringing all the elements together is where the magic happens. The pesto will coat the pasta and chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

1. Combine the Pasta and Pesto

Return the cooked pasta to the pot or transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the pesto and a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Toss the pasta until it’s evenly coated with the pesto. If the sauce seems too thick, add more pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

2. Add the Chicken

Gently fold in the sliced chicken, ensuring it’s well distributed throughout the pasta. The warm pasta and chicken will help release the aromas of the pesto, making the dish even more inviting.

3. Adjust Seasoning

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Presentation is important, especially when serving guests. Garnishing the dish with fresh ingredients will make it look as good as it tastes.

1. Plate the Dish

Divide the pesto chicken pasta among plates or serve it family-style in a large serving bowl.

2. Garnish

Top the pasta with halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness. Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who like a citrusy kick.

Tips for the Perfect Pesto Chicken with Pasta

Creating the perfect pesto chicken pasta requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese make a huge difference in the flavor of your pesto. Whenever possible, use the freshest ingredients you can find.

2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Be sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and let it rest before slicing.

3. Cook Pasta to Al Dente

Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures it has the right texture and can hold up to the pesto sauce without becoming mushy.

4. Reserve Pasta Water

Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps the pesto sauce adhere to the pasta, creating a creamy, cohesive dish.

5. Customize to Your Taste

Feel free to customize the dish to your liking. Add vegetables like sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or grilled zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Variations and Customizations

Pesto chicken with pasta is a versatile dish that can be adapted in many ways to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations:

1. Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

For a richer, creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the pesto before tossing it with the pasta.

2. Pesto Chicken with Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta

Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to make the dish more nutritious or accommodate dietary restrictions.

3. Pesto Chicken with Zoodles

For a low-carb alternative, use zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of pasta. The fresh, crisp texture of zoodles pairs wonderfully with pesto.

4. Pesto Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory pesto.

5. Grilled Pesto Chicken

Instead of pan-searing, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor that complements the pesto.

Serving Suggestions

Pesto chicken with pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience with a few complementary sides and beverages.

Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra pesto sauce.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
Caprese Salad: A simple Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is a perfect accompaniment.

Beverage Pairings:

White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the herbaceous notes of the pesto.
Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is a refreshing choice.
Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea with a hint of lemon balances the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Pesto chicken with pasta is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together the bright flavors of basil pesto, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. With its simple preparation and versatile nature, it’s a meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends.

By following this recipe and tips, you’ll be able to create a pesto chicken pasta that’s not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and variations to make the dish your own. Serve it with your favorite sides and beverages for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a quick yet satisfying dinner, give this pesto chicken with pasta recipe a try. It might just become a new favorite in your household!

Yield: 8