Are you ready to elevate your pasta game to a whole new level? If you’re looking for a recipe that’s bursting with flavor yet simple enough for a weeknight meal, Pesto Pasta with Parmesan Chicken Perfection is the one for you. This dish combines the aromatic essence of fresh basil pesto with succulent chicken, creating a harmonious balance that is sure to please your taste buds. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delicious homemade meal in no time. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this Pesto Pasta with Parmesan Chicken Perfection. Firstly, the use of fresh basil in the pesto elevates this dish to something truly special. Basil not only provides a vibrant flavor but also offers numerous health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. When blended with Parmesan cheese and olive oil, it creates a creamy, rich sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
Secondly, the addition of Parmesan chicken complements the pesto beautifully. Cooking the chicken breasts until they are golden brown ensures a delightful texture that contrasts perfectly with the smoothness of the pasta. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will have your family or guests coming back for seconds.
Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can customize the pasta type to suit your preference be it penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. You can also add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers to the dish for an extra nutritional boost. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal that can be stored in the fridge for leftovers, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Trying your hand at Pesto Pasta with Parmesan Chicken Perfection is an experience that brings both joy and satisfaction. Not only does it allow you to explore culinary creativity, but it also introduces you to the art of making homemade pesto, which is far superior to store-bought varieties. The freshness of homemade pesto is unmatched and adds a unique touch that enhances the overall dish.
Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic way to introduce new flavors to your dinner table. If you or your loved ones are not typically fans of pesto, this dish might just change their minds! The combination of the savory chicken with the nutty and creamy pesto sauce creates a delightful flavor profile that is hard to resist.
Moreover, preparing this meal is a wonderful opportunity to connect with family or friends in the kitchen. Cooking can be a fun group activity, and this recipe is simple enough to involve others in the process. Invite a friend over, share the cooking tasks, and enjoy a delicious meal together!
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (your choice, such as penne or spaghetti)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup additional grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Recommended Tools or Utensils for Recipe Success
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Food processor for making pesto
- Large skillet for cooking chicken
- Mixing bowl for combining pasta and pesto
- Sharp knife for slicing chicken
- Measuring cups and spoons
Detailed Recipe Steps
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes depending on the type of pasta. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the pesto later.
- Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Combine Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and pesto. Toss until the pasta is well coated. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve: Divide the pesto pasta among plates. Top each serving with slices of Parmesan chicken and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Pesto Pasta with Parmesan Chicken Perfection!
FAQs
What type of pasta is best for pesto?
While you can use any pasta, penne and spaghetti are particularly popular choices as they hold the pesto sauce well. Choose your favorite type for a personal touch!
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?
Absolutely! While homemade pesto is fresher and more flavorful, store-bought options can save time and still taste great in this recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding in your favorite vegetables, such as grilled zucchini or roasted bell peppers.
Can I freeze pesto pasta?
While the pasta can be frozen, the texture may change upon reheating. It’s best to freeze the pesto separately and combine it with fresh pasta when ready to serve.
What other proteins pair well with pesto pasta?
Aside from chicken, shrimp, grilled salmon, or even tofu are excellent protein options that pair beautifully with pesto pasta.
Conclusion
In summary, Pesto Pasta with Parmesan Chicken Perfection is a versatile, flavorful, and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, it can easily become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to try this dish and share your experience in the comments below! If you love this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family or pin it for later. Happy cooking!
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Pesto Pasta with Parmesan Chicken Perfection
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Food Processor
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Serving Plates
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Olive oil
- 1/3 cup Pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Additional grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and pesto. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
- Divide the pesto pasta among plates. Top each serving with slices of Parmesan chicken and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Pesto Pasta with Parmesan Chicken Perfection!
