Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of pasta tossed with flavorful pesto and succulent BBQ chicken? This recipe for BBQ Chicken Pesto Pasta is the ultimate combination of savory and fresh flavors, perfect for a cozy night in with loved ones. Let’s dive into creating this delicious and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
**Ingredients:**
– 12 ounces of pasta (your choice of shape)
– 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup of pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Season the chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to low and pour BBQ sauce over the chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce to the chicken and BBQ mixture. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauces and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. If the pasta seems too dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water will help the sauce cling better to the noodles.
6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently mix it in. This will add a salty, nutty flavor to the dish and enhance the creaminess of the pesto.
7. Serve the BBQ Chicken Pesto Pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra herbaceous aroma. Enjoy this delightful blend of BBQ tanginess, aromatic pesto, tender chicken, and al dente pasta – a symphony of flavors that will surely satisfy your cravings.
Creating this BBQ Chicken Pesto Pasta is a wonderful way to please your taste buds and bring a touch of gourmet flair to your dining table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night at home or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich, harmonious flavors. Experiment with different pasta shapes or add extra veggies for a personalized twist. Dive into a bowl of this comforting pasta dish and savor each delightful bite – it’s a meal that will make any occasion feel special.
