Fresh Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta
A vibrant and comforting creamy pesto chicken pasta dish packed with fresh basil flavor, tender chicken, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 lb (450g) penne or fusilli pasta
1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Boil salted water and cook pasta to al dente; reserve 1/2 cup water.
2. Sear diced seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly.
4. Lower heat; stir in pesto and cream.
5. Toss in cooked pasta and coat evenly.
6. Fold in tomatoes and cheese.
7. Garnish with basil and pine nuts.
8. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Store leftovers in fridge for 3 days.
Add spinach for extra veggies.