In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s often challenging to find time to prepare elaborate meals. That’s where the beauty of simple and delicious recipes comes in handy. If you’re looking for a dish that is easy to make yet packed with flavor, look no further than our Simple Pesto Pasta Chicken recipe. This delightful combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant pesto sauce will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Title: Simple Pesto Pasta Chicken
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (linguine or penne work well)
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have a golden-brown color. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
4. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Pulse the mixture until finely chopped.
5. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto comes together into a smooth sauce. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
6. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
7. In a large skillet, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and pesto sauce. Toss everything together over low heat until the pasta is well-coated in the pesto and the chicken is heated through.
8. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
9. Serve the Simple Pesto Pasta Chicken hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it brings together classic flavors in a harmonious union. Give it a try on a busy weeknight or when you’re in the mood for a cozy homemade meal. Let the aroma of basil and garlic fill your kitchen, and savor each bite of this delightful Simple Pesto Pasta Chicken creation.
