Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe: Fresh Basil and Grilled Delight
A vibrant Italian dish with homemade basil pesto, grilled chicken, and pasta, ideal for dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ⅓ cup pine nuts
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice optional
- Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz pasta penne, fusilli, or farfalle
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or 1/2 cup pasta water
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- Optional: Extra Parmesan or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Blend basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper; drizzle in olive oil to make pesto. Add optional lemon juice.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup water, then drain.
- Season and grill or pan-sear chicken until 165°F; rest and slice.
- Toss pasta with pesto, chicken, and optional tomatoes or cream/pasta water; warm gently if needed.
- Garnish with Parmesan or basil; serve hot with salad or bread.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for vibrant pesto.
- Cook pasta al dente to hold the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water for a creamy texture.
- Serve with a Caesar salad or garlic bread.