Description
Pesto pasta with grilled chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring al dente pasta tossed in fresh basil pesto and topped with juicy grilled chicken. Garnished with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, this easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta (spaghetti or choice)
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente, drain, and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Grill Chicken: Season chicken, heat oil in a grill pan, and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until 165°F (75°C). Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Toss Pasta: Mix pasta with pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Assemble & Serve: Top pasta with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil.
- Customization: Try different proteins, add veggies, or make a creamy pesto version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
