Pesto Chicken Pasta

Pesto Chicken Pasta
Pesto Chicken Pasta brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and flavorful basil pesto in a quick and satisfying meal. Diced chicken breasts are seasoned with salt and pepper, then pan-seared until golden brown. Meanwhile, pasta cooks to perfection before being tossed with the cooked chicken and generous dollops of basil pesto, coating each bite with vibrant flavor.

Approx times: Prep: 10 min - Cook: 15 min
Ingredients
Serves 4
  • 12 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 cup store-bought or homemade basil pesto
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions
  • Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes around 10-12 minutes depending on the type of pasta. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
  • While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Season the diced chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even seasoning throughout.
  • In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook the chicken, occasionally, stirring, until cooked through, about 6-8 min. It should be firm to the touch, no longer pink.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and add the pasta. Using tongs, toss the pasta with the chicken, allowing them to combine and heat through.
  • Next, add in the basil pesto, spooning it evenly over the chicken and pasta. Ensure it coats the chicken and pasta evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Once heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your taste preferences.
  • Transfer everything to individual plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves for freshness and flavor.