Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe: Easy 30-Minute Weeknight Dinner
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this quick, flavorful pesto pasta dish that's sure to impress
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Delicious Pesto Pasta with Chicken: A 30-Minute Meal
When it comes to quick and satisfying weeknight dinners, few dishes can compete with a well-executed pasta recipe. Our Pesto Pasta with Chicken brings together the vibrant flavors of basil pesto, tender chicken pieces, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed with perfectly cooked bow tie pasta. The result is a restaurant-quality meal that can be on your table in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress your guests while keeping your time in the kitchen to a minimum.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Pasta with Chicken
This pesto pasta with chicken has become a fan favorite for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited but you still want something delicious and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken pieces, al dente pasta, rich pesto, and sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.
Additionally, this recipe is highly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Don’t have bow tie pasta? No problem! Any pasta shape works beautifully in this recipe. Vegetarian guests coming over? Simply omit the chicken and perhaps add some sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead. The possibilities for customization are endless.
Perhaps most importantly, this dish strikes that perfect balance between being simple enough for beginner cooks yet impressive enough to serve to guests. It’s a recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to again and again, both for everyday family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients for Pesto Pasta with Chicken
One of the beauties of this recipe is its straightforward ingredient list. You’ll need just a handful of quality items to create this flavorful dish:
- 1 (16 ounce) package bow tie pasta – Also known as farfalle, these pasta shapes hold the sauce beautifully and add visual appeal to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the garlic and chicken, adding a subtle fruity note.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides an aromatic foundation for the dish.
- 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – The protein component that makes this a complete meal.
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste – Adds a gentle heat that complements the other flavors.
- ½ cup pesto sauce – The star ingredient that brings together herbs, nuts, cheese, and olive oil in one flavorful sauce.
- ⅓ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and cut into strips – These add a sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture contrast.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Another advantage of this recipe is that it requires minimal equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious meal:
- Large pot – For boiling the pasta
- Colander – For draining the pasta
- Large skillet – For cooking the chicken with garlic and red pepper flakes
- Cutting board and knife – For cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces
- Large bowl – For tossing all ingredients together
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Following these simple steps will lead you to a delicious meal in no time:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, gather all your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and slice the sun-dried tomatoes into strips if they aren’t already prepared. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook until al dente, which typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Check the package instructions for specific timing recommendations, as cooking times can vary by brand. You want the pasta to be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten – this is the perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, shaking gently to remove excess water.
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Step 3: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and tender, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become bitter.
Next, add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for spiciness. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown on the outside and is cooked through completely. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Step 4: Combine All Elements
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta, the cooked chicken (including any garlic and oil from the skillet), the pesto sauce, and the sun-dried tomatoes. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the pasta is well coated with the pesto sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving platter. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while still warm. If desired, you can garnish with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a few fresh basil leaves, or an additional sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy extra heat.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
One of the greatest strengths of this pesto pasta with chicken recipe is its adaptability. Here are some popular variations and substitutions to consider:
Pasta Options
While bow tie pasta (farfalle) works beautifully in this recipe, you can substitute with almost any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand. Penne, rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti would all work well. For a healthier option, consider whole wheat pasta or even a gluten-free alternative if dietary restrictions require it.
Protein Alternatives
Not a fan of chicken? This recipe is equally delicious with other proteins:
- Shrimp – Sauté for just 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque
- Italian sausage – Remove from casings and brown before adding other ingredients
- Tofu – Press firm tofu and cut into cubes for a vegetarian option
Vegetable Additions
Enhance the nutritional value and add more color to your dish by incorporating some vegetables:
- Baby spinach – Toss in at the end to wilt from the residual heat
- Roasted red peppers – Add sweet flavor and vibrant color
- Sautéed mushrooms – Provide earthy flavor and meaty texture
- Cherry tomatoes – Halved and added fresh for a burst of freshness
- Artichoke hearts – Quartered and added for Mediterranean flair
Pesto Variations
While traditional basil pesto is called for in this recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with different varieties:
- Sun-dried tomato pesto – For an extra layer of tomato flavor
- Spinach pesto – A milder, iron-rich alternative
- Arugula pesto – Adds a peppery kick to the dish
- Homemade pesto – If you have fresh basil on hand, making your own pesto can elevate this dish even further
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This pesto pasta with chicken is primarily designed to be enjoyed fresh, but there are several ways to work with leftovers or prepare components ahead of time:
Make-Ahead Options
If you’re planning to serve this dish for a gathering or want to get a head start on dinner:
- Cook the chicken up to a day in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container.
- Cook the pasta ahead of time, toss it with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and refrigerate.
- When ready to serve, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet, warm the pasta (a quick dip in hot water works well), then combine with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or water and warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, or microwave at 50% power, stirring occasionally.
- Note that the pasta may absorb some of the pesto sauce during storage, so you might want to add a little extra pesto or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating.
Freezing Recommendations
While pasta dishes typically don’t freeze particularly well due to texture changes, you can freeze this dish if necessary:
- Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pesto pasta with chicken is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance your dining experience with these complementary sides and beverages:
Side Dishes
- Simple green salad – A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta
- Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up any extra pesto sauce
- Roasted vegetables – Such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a nutritious accompaniment
- Caprese salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complements the Italian flavors
Beverage Pairings
- White wine – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the pesto flavors
- Light red wine – A Pinot Noir can complement the sun-dried tomatoes without overwhelming the dish
- Sparkling water – With a squeeze of lemon for a non-alcoholic option
- Iced tea – Particularly herb-infused varieties like basil or mint tea
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken to make this recipe even quicker?
A: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving hack. Simply shred or dice the chicken and add it to the skillet with the garlic just long enough to warm it through before combining with the pasta and other ingredients.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, look for dairy-free pesto options, which are increasingly available in stores. Alternatively, you can make your own dairy-free pesto by substituting nutritional yeast for the traditional Parmesan cheese.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired heat level. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped fresh chili pepper when sautéing the garlic.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
A: While sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor and unique texture, you can substitute fresh cherry or grape tomatoes. Halve them and add them at the very end to maintain their freshness. The flavor profile will be different but still delicious.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking together?
A: Cook the pasta in plenty of water, stir occasionally during cooking, and most importantly, don’t rinse it after draining unless you’re planning to use it later. The starch on the surface of drained pasta helps the sauce adhere better. If you must wait before combining with other ingredients, toss with a tiny bit of olive oil.
This pesto pasta with chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a solution for busy weeknights, a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, and a canvas for your culinary creativity. With its balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, it delivers both satisfaction and nutrition in every bite. The vibrant flavors of basil pesto, the tender pieces of sautéed chicken, and the sweet intensity of sun-dried tomatoes create a meal that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal effort. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or customize it to suit your preferences, this dish is sure to earn a permanent spot in your regular meal rotation.
References
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/46982/pesto-pasta-with-chicken/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/26284/penne-with-chicken-and-pesto/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/217912/spences-pesto-chicken-pasta/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/268189/slow-cooker-creamy-pesto-chicken-and-pasta/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/78210/teenas-spicy-pesto-chicken-and-pasta/
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