Description
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that harmoniously combines tender chicken with al dente pasta and a rich, aromatic pesto sauce. The fresh basil and garlic create an irresistible aroma, making this meal ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests. With its colorful presentation and simple preparation, you can impress everyone at the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat and slice.
- In a food processor, blend basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, and salt while gradually adding olive oil until smooth.
- Combine cooked pasta with sliced chicken and pesto in a large pot; toss until well-coated.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh basil as garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 12 oz)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg