why make this recipe
Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors with easy preparation. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The vibrant green pesto sauce adds a burst of flavor, while the grilled chicken provides a satisfying source of protein. Plus, this recipe is versatile; you can customize it to make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish will impress.
how to make Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat and grill the chicken until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and pesto sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Slice the grilled chicken and serve on top of the pesto pasta.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired.
how to serve Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Serve the Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken warm. You can place the pasta on a plate and then top it with the grilled chicken slices. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an appealing finish. This dish pairs well with a light salad or some garlic bread on the side.
how to store Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta can last for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil to keep it moist. You can microwave it or warm it on the stove, stirring occasionally.
tips to make Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
- To enhance the flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a bit of pesto before grilling.
- Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- If you prefer, you can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach to the pasta for extra nutrition.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe. Try swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein. Additionally, you can change the type of pasta, using penne or fusilli instead of spaghetti. Another option is to add sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the pesto pasta for a more Mediterranean flair.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works great for this recipe and saves time.
What type of pasta is best for pesto?
Any type of pasta works well, but shorter varieties like fusilli or penne hold the pesto sauce nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the components ahead. Cook the pasta and chicken, then mix them with pesto just before serving for the best flavor.
Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta Any type of pasta works well, but shorter varieties hold the pesto sauce nicely.
- 1 cup pesto sauce Can use store-bought pesto for convenience.
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Chicken can be marinated in pesto for added flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil For grilling the chicken.
- Parmesan cheese for serving Freshly grated for best flavor.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Grilling the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat and grill the chicken until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and pesto sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Slice the grilled chicken and serve on top of the pesto pasta.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired.