This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a tasty meal that brings together juicy chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts. Tossed with herby pesto, it’s a flavor party in every bite!
Cooking this dish is a breeze and the flavors are fantastic. I love how it makes a perfect dinner that feels special, yet is so simple to whip up on a busy night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is a great choice because its shape holds onto the sauce well. If you don’t have it, any pasta, like penne or fusilli, will work just fine.
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken for less prep or use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a fresh burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Canned diced tomatoes could work in a pinch.
Pesto: Store-bought pesto saves time, but homemade pesto can be richer. If you need a substitute, blend spinach, garlic, nuts, and olive oil for a quick sauce.
Pine Nuts: These add a nice crunch. You could swap them with walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds if you’re looking for a nut-free option.
How Can You Cook Chicken Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking chicken right is key for juiciness. Start with a medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly. Here’s how:
- Make sure the chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Season well with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, checking for doneness; no pink should remain inside.
- Remove from heat once cooked to avoid drying out.
Rest the chicken for a couple of minutes before mixing it into the pasta to keep it juicy!
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces farfalle pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors if possible)
- 1/3 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Pesto Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delightful dish, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, carefully add the farfalle pasta. Cook it following the package instructions until it’s al dente—tender but with a slight bite. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. While the oil is heating, season your diced chicken with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook it, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink. You want it to be nicely browned!
3. Add Tomatoes:
Now, it’s time to add some color! Toss the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet with the chicken. Sauté them together for another 3-4 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to soften and blister a bit. This will bring out their sweet flavor!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Once your chicken and tomatoes are ready, reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked pasta and the bright green pesto to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. You want to see that lovely pesto clinging to every piece!
5. Add Pine Nuts:
Finally, stir in the toasted pine nuts, mixing them into the pasta dish. These will add a delicious crunch, so make sure they’re well-distributed throughout!
6. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and give your pasta a final sprinkle of fresh basil on top, if you like. Serve the pasta warm, adding grated Parmesan cheese over each plate if desired. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish!
Enjoy your Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Pesto?
No problem! You can make a quick alternative by blending fresh basil with olive oil, garlic, and nuts (like walnuts or almonds) for a homemade pesto. Additionally, you can use store-bought sun-dried tomato or olive tapenade for a different flavor twist!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water to help loosen up the pasta.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini when sautéing with the chicken. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re tender but still vibrant.
