The aroma of basil mingles with the rich scent of toasted pine nuts, creating a mouthwatering experience that instantly transports you to a sun-drenched Italian terrace. Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to delight in every bite while your taste buds dance with joy.
As I stirred the vibrant green pesto sauce into perfectly cooked pasta, memories of family gatherings flooded my mind. This dish has graced countless dinner tables, making it ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or festive celebrations. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Pesto Pasta is quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of nutty, savory, and fresh ingredients.
- Its visual appeal with colorful tomatoes and lush pesto will brighten any plate.
- Plus, this dish is versatile enough to accommodate various vegetables or proteins based on your preferences.
Ingredients for Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best for this recipe, but feel free to adjust according to your crowd size.
Pasta: I prefer using penne or fusilli as they hold onto the pesto beautifully.
Fresh Basil Pesto: Homemade is always better, but store-bought can save time without sacrificing flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Look for vibrant red tomatoes; their sweetness complements the savory elements in the dish.
Pine Nuts: Toasted lightly for an added crunch; they bring a nutty richness that ties everything together.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor when cooking the chicken.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds creaminess and a salty kick at the end.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve some pasta water for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season your boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot pan. Sear on each side until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes per side—and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Mix in Pesto
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest briefly before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet (don’t you dare wash it just yet!), add your drained pasta along with fresh basil pesto. Toss until every noodle gets coated in that glorious green goodness.
Step 4: Add Cherry Tomatoes
Chop those vibrant cherry tomatoes in half and toss them into your pasta mix along with sliced chicken. If things look too dry, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you achieve your preferred consistency.
Step 5: Toast Pine Nuts
In a small dry pan over low heat, toast your pine nuts until golden brown—this takes mere minutes! Keep an eye on them; nobody loves burnt nuts unless it’s Halloween.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Plate up generous servings of your Chicken Pesto Pasta topped with toasted pine nuts and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional olive oil if you’re feeling fancy!
Now you’ve created something beautiful that smells amazing! Enjoy every single bite of your homemade masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
- You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
- The dish bursts with colors and flavors, making every bite a joy.
- Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the pasta while preparing the vibrant pesto sauce. This efficient sequence ensures everything comes together harmoniously and tastes divine.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pine nuts for walnuts or omit them altogether if you’re nut-free. Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Make this dish uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil to bring back that fresh flavor and prevent dryness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh basil for the best pesto flavor; dried herbs just won’t cut it.
- Don’t overcook your pasta—al dente is key for texture.
- And remember, a little extra drizzle of olive oil can elevate your dish!
Sharing this recipe with my friends always brings smiles and compliments, especially when they rave about how easy it is to make this Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts. It’s become a staple at our potlucks!
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts?
To prepare Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts, you will need boneless chicken breast, your favorite pasta (like penne or spaghetti), fresh basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This recipe highlights the combination of vibrant flavors that make this dish a family favorite. Don’t forget to have grated Parmesan cheese on hand for garnishing!
How long does it take to cook Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts?
Cooking Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is quite quick. You should allocate about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes about 10-12 minutes for boiling the pasta and another 15 minutes for sautéing the chicken and preparing the sauce. The fast cooking time makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have much time.
Can I substitute any ingredients in Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts?
Yes, you can customize Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts based on your preferences. For instance, if you are looking for a vegetarian option, replace chicken with grilled zucchini or mushrooms. You can also use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time. As for nuts, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pine nuts for a different flavor profile.
Is Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts healthy?
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts can be a healthy meal option when prepared thoughtfully. The dish provides lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, as well as vitamins from fresh tomatoes and basil. To make it even healthier, consider using whole-grain pasta or adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutrient content.
Conclusion for Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
In summary, Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic basil pesto, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy making this delicious dish during your next family dinner!
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is a vibrant, Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent chicken, aromatic basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy toasted pine nuts. Ready in just 30 minutes, this delicious pasta dish delivers a burst of flavor in every bite, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Experience the joy of cooking and savor the delightful fusion of taste and texture that will transport you straight to a sun-kissed Italian terrace.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 lb)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ¼ cup pine nuts (toasted)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook penne according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, add drained pasta and basil pesto. Toss until evenly coated.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and sliced chicken. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually for desired consistency.
- In a separate small pan over low heat, toast pine nuts until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
- Plate the pasta topped with toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For enhanced flavor, consider using homemade pesto. - Substitute pine nuts with walnuts or omit them for a nut-free version. - Add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
