pesto pasta and chicken recipe

The Best pesto pasta and chicken recipe

This pesto pasta with chicken is one of those meals that feels like a hug for your taste buds and your wallet. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion where I want something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying without breaking the bank. The creamy, herby pesto gives it that vibrant, bright taste that makes every bite feel like a little celebration, and the chicken adds a nice protein boost without being too heavy. My kids actually love it because it’s not too spicy, not too plain, and it’s got that perfect balance of textures—soft pasta, tender chicken, and crunchy herbs. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent but is actually pretty healthy, too. The basil and garlic give it antioxidants, and the olive oil keeps it heart-friendly. Plus, it’s easy to customize—swap the chicken for shrimp if you’re in the mood, or add some roasted veggies for extra nutrients. It’s that kind of recipe that makes me feel good about feeding my family, and honestly, it’s one of the reasons I love cooking.

Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken

4.6 from 829 votes

A flavorful dish combining fresh basil pesto with tender grilled chicken and al dente pasta, topped with melted Parmesan. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

🖨️ Print Recipe📌 Pin Recipe❤️ Add to Collection

Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time35 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time55 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pesto Sauce

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Add cherry tomatoes and pulse again if desired.
2. 2 Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. 3 Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry. In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken evenly with the mixture. Grill or pan-sear for 6-7 minutes per side for medium-rare (or bake at 375°F/190°C for 20-25 mins). Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. 4 Combine everything: In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Pour the pesto sauce over the pasta and stir to combine. Add sliced chicken and Parmesan cheese, mixing gently to incorporate.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Food processor or blender
• Grill or grill pan
• Baking sheet (for optional baked chicken)
• Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28💛Saturated Fat: 10❤️Cholesterol: 80🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 55🥦Dietary Fiber: 5🍬Sugars: 8🥩Protein: 40

📝Notes

Tip: For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the pesto.,Tip: Use a mix of whole wheat pasta and regular pasta for a lighter option.,Tip: If using walnuts instead of pine nuts, toast them first in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes to enhance flavor.

This pesto pasta with chicken recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s quick to make while still feeling special—no fancy prep required. It’s hearty enough to hold up when you’re serving multiple dishes, and the fresh flavors make it feel like a real meal instead of just a quick fix. Plus, it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike, so it never fails to bring people together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken

What is the best way to prepare fresh basil pesto for pesto pasta with chicken?

To prepare fresh basil pesto, start by blending 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a nutty twist), 3 cloves roasted garlic, ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt until smooth. For the best flavor, pulse the mixture in a food processor or blender, then adjust the olive oil gradually to reach a creamy consistency. If you’re short on time, you can also make a quick pesto by chopping the ingredients finely and whisking them together.

—

How do I ensure my chicken is cooked through evenly when adding it to the pesto pasta?

For perfectly cooked chicken in pesto pasta, start by cooking the chicken separately in a pan with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove it from the pan and set aside. While the chicken cooks, prepare the pesto sauce and cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Once the pasta is drained, gently fold in the cooked chicken and toss with the pesto, ensuring it’s evenly distributed without overmixing.

—

Can I substitute any ingredients in the traditional pesto recipe, and if so, what are the good alternatives?

Yes, you can make substitutions in the pesto recipe! For pine nuts, try sunflower seeds, walnuts, or even pecans for a different texture. If you don’t have basil, spinach or arugula work well, though basil is the classic choice. For Parmesan, use aged Pecorino Romano or even a mix of goat cheese for a tangier flavor. If you’re avoiding nuts, skip them entirely and add extra olive oil or a splash of lemon juice for creaminess. For a nut-free, dairy-free version, blend tofu or cashews with olive oil and lemon juice instead.

—

How long should I cook the pasta in order to avoid overcooking it when combining with pesto?

Cook the pasta al dente (about 1 minute less than the package instructions) to ensure it stays tender when mixed with the pesto. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook for the recommended time—usually 8 to 10 minutes for spaghetti or penne. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. After draining, toss the pasta with the pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles without making it too thick.

—

What are some great side dishes that pair well with pesto pasta and chicken?

Pesto pasta with chicken pairs beautifully with fresh, light, and slightly crispy sides. Consider serving it with: – Garlic-roasted broccoli (tossed in olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes). – Simple arugula salad with shaved Parmesan, lemon juice, and toasted pine nuts. – Crispy roasted zucchini or bell peppers for a veggie-packed side. – Garlic bread or a warm focaccia to soak up the pesto. – Steamed asparagus with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of sea salt. For a heartier option, add a small portion of grilled or sautéed mushrooms alongside the chicken.