Nothing beats a warm bowl of pasta covered in creamy pesto sauce combined with tender, juicy chicken that melts in your mouth! Say hello to our 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta – the ultimate comfort food that will awaken your taste buds with its vibrant flavors and delightful texture. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family gathering or a busy weeknight dinner, this dish is a quick and impressive way to feed your loved ones.
Did you know that pesto has its roots in the Italian region of Liguria? It’s derived from the word “pestare,” which means to crush, referring to the traditional method of making the sauce. After several culinary experiments in my kitchen, I can confidently say this dish would give any popular pasta recipe a run for its money. If you love our creamy alfredo pasta, brace yourself for the herbaceous, savory, and nutty taste of this pesto delight!
Get ready to bring flavor and ease to your table with this tasty dinner idea that every member of your family will adore!
What is 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta?
The name alone makes your mouth water, doesn’t it? 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of tender chicken pieces sautéed to perfection, served over al dente pasta, generously dressed with fragrant basil pesto. You might wonder who came up with such a delightful and easy meal. Perhaps it was a busy parent who thought, “Why should I sacrifice quality for speed?” After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and I’d argue that this dish could win over even the pickiest of eaters! If you haven’t tried making this delicious pasta yet, what are you waiting for? Dive in!
Why You’ll Love This 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta
Get ready for your new go-to meal! Our 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta shines as the main dish due to its charming blend of aromas, textures, and flavors. Savory pesto sauce clings to perfectly cooked pasta while tender chunks of chicken add satisfaction with every bite. Cooking at home also saves you money compared to dining out, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank!
Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in customizable toppings! Whether you sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese, add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color, or toss in fresh spinach for an extra layer of healthiness, the choices are endless. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your family with this easy and flavorful meal that everyone can enjoy!
How to Make 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta
Quick Overview
Making our 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta is a breeze! With a delightful blend of textures and flavors, the dish comes together in just under 35 minutes. Imagine tender chicken, pasta perfectly coated in a creamy pesto sauce, and vibrant toppings that create a feast for the eyes and palate. Ready to indulge?
Preparation Time: 35 minutes
Key Ingredients for 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this culinary masterpiece:
- 8 oz. (225g) pasta (your choice – penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your own 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the cooked, shredded chicken and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to warm through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine With Pesto: Reduce the heat to low. Add the basil pesto to the skillet, stirring well. If it seems thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Mix with Pasta: Stir the drained pasta into the skillet with the chicken and pesto, mixing until everything is coated evenly.
- Add Toppings: Remove from heat and add the halved cherry tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together once again.
- Serve: Plate the delicious pasta dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Substitutions Galore: If you’re looking for alternative proteins, try substituting shredded chicken with grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Timing is Key: Make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It will keep your kitchen running smoothly!
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your pasta as you cook it. Al dente is the way to go – this helps the pasta hold onto that delicious pesto sauce without becoming mushy.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing your 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta is straightforward. If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For freezing, it’s best to store it in portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for a hassle-free meal. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or oil, stirring gently to maintain that creamy texture.
Now that you’re armed with the ultimate guide to creating 35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta, it’s time to hit the kitchen! Enjoy the bold flavors, family bonding over dinner, and the satisfaction of a well-cooked meal. Happy cooking!
35-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the cooked, shredded chicken and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to warm through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the basil pesto to the skillet, stirring well. If it seems thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Stir the drained pasta into the skillet with the chicken and pesto, mixing until everything is coated evenly.
- Remove from heat and add the halved cherry tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together once again.
- Plate the delicious pasta dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
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