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
Scale
- 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.