This Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish packed with flavor. With juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts, it’s sure to make your taste buds dance!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta is fun and holds sauce well, but you can swap it for any pasta you have, like penne or fusilli. Whole grain or gluten-free options also work great!
Chicken: I love using chicken breasts for this recipe, but you could also use rotisserie chicken or even shrimp for a different protein option!
Cherry Tomatoes: These tomatoes add so much sweetness! If you can’t find them, regular diced tomatoes will do, but ensure you drain them to avoid sogginess.
Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts bring a lovely crunch. If you’re looking for a substitute, try sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts. Both add a nice texture, too!
Pesto: Homemade basil pesto is fantastic if you have fresh basil. If not, store-bought works just fine! You can also use a sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist.
How Can I Perfectly Cook the Chicken?
Cooking the chicken just right can make a big difference in the dish. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Make sure the pan is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat and keep it juicy.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each piece enough space to cook evenly. If you have too many pieces, cook them in batches.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Cook until the chicken is golden on the outside and no longer pink in the center.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken is tender and flavorful every time! Happy cooking!
Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 225g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow for color)
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal! Enjoy the deliciousness in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (cooked but still firm). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes blister and soften up nicely.
4. Toast the Pine Nuts:
In a small, dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat. Stir frequently until they are lightly golden and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet alongside the tomatoes. Then, add the cooked pasta and spoon in the basil pesto. Toss everything together gently over low heat until everything is combined and warmed through.
6. Serve It Up:
Transfer the pasta mixture to a serving plate. Top it off with the toasted pine nuts and sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley if you like. It’s ready to be enjoyed!
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad on the side and a refreshing glass of white wine or sparkling water with a splash of lemon. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works just as well and adds extra fiber. Just remember to cook it according to the package instructions, as it may require a slightly different cooking time than regular pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Pine Nuts?
If you don’t have pine nuts, you can use toasted walnuts, sunflower seeds, or almonds. Each provides a different flavor but will still give that delightful crunch!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of cherry tomatoes or add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You could also incorporate chickpeas for added protein!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
