Chicken Pesto Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings together juicy chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet fresh.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Pesto Pasta is packed with bold, herby flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s simple, family-friendly, and uses easy-to-find ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, rich pesto, and sweet cherry tomatoes makes every bite balanced and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 12 ounces short pasta (such as farfalle)
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
- Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the pan with the chicken.
- Add the pesto and toss everything together until evenly coated—this is where your Chicken Pesto Pasta comes together beautifully.
- Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes.
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor and texture.
- Reserve a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Swap chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly
Notes
- You can use homemade or store-bought pesto.
- Serve with garlic bread or a light green salad.
- For a creamier version, stir in a splash of cooking cream.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 22g
FAQ
Can I make Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or rotini work great.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes if you prefer heat.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free pesto and skip the parmesan.
What protein alternatives can I use?
Try shrimp or grilled vegetables instead of chicken.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (without tomatoes for best texture).
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Similar Recipes
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 12 ounces short pasta such as farfalle
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
- Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the pan with the chicken.
- Add the pesto and toss everything together until evenly coated—this is where your Chicken Pesto Pasta comes together beautifully.
- Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes.
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use homemade or store-bought pesto.
- Serve with garlic bread or a light green salad.
- For a creamier version, stir in a splash of cooking cream.
Conclusion
This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers fresh flavors and comforting textures in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.