Grab your taste buds for this easy chicken pesto pasta! It’s creamy, packed with flavorful basil pesto, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts to add a fun twist.
This dish comes together in no time, which is perfect for busy days. I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese and watching everyone come back for seconds—it’s always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is fun and holds sauce well, but any pasta you like, such as penne or fusilli, works too. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can also be great substitutes.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are quick to cook and tender. You can use rotisserie chicken for a faster option, or swap with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add juiciness and sweetness. If they aren’t in season, diced canned tomatoes work in a pinch. Just drain them well!
Pesto: Store-bought basil pesto is super convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pesto with fresh basil and nuts is fantastic! For a dairy-free version, opt for a nut-based pesto instead.
How Do I Sauté Chicken Perfectly?
Sautéing chicken requires a bit of technique to ensure it’s cooked evenly and remains juicy. Start by cutting your chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil until it’s shimmering.
- Season your chicken pieces well with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Let the chicken cook without stirring for a few minutes, then flip to brown both sides, about 5-7 minutes total.
Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for a minute. This keeps it juicy and flavorful!
Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces farfalle (bowtie) pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (mix of red and yellow), halved
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup prepared basil pesto
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes on prep work and the remaining time cooking everything to tasty perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté them until they begin to soften and blister, which takes about 5-6 minutes. This step enhances their flavor!
4. Combine Ingredients:
After the tomatoes have softened, return the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Lower the heat slightly and stir in the basil pesto, ensuring that the chicken and tomatoes are well-coated and combined.
5. Finish with Pasta:
Add the drained farfalle pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Make sure all the pasta is coated with that delicious pesto sauce!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and chopped fresh basil over the pasta. Serve hot, and if you like, add some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor!
Enjoy this quick and flavorful pasta dish that balances savory chicken, fresh pesto, sweet blistered tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts for a delightful texture contrast!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still adds excellent flavor to the dish. Just make sure to choose a brand you enjoy, as it will greatly influence the overall taste of your pasta!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and substituting it with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for protein. You can also add more veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to add your favorite veggies! Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli can complement the dish beautifully. Just sauté them with the tomatoes to soften them up and blend their flavors!
