This Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a colorful dish with juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts. It’s drizzled in a tasty pesto sauce that brings everything together.
The best part? It’s super quick to make, so you can enjoy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen! I love tossing in extra tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: While bowtie pasta (farfalle) is fun and holds sauce well, you can swap it for any pasta you have on hand. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti works great too!
Chicken: I love using chicken breasts for their tenderness. If you want a quicker option, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute. Just shred it and toss it in at the end!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and flavor. If they’re not in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Pine Nuts: For a more budget-friendly option, try walnuts or almonds. They’ll offer a similar crunch and taste. Just be sure to toast them for extra flavor!
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is super convenient, but you can also make your own by blending fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, nuts, and Parmesan. It’s so worth the effort!
How Do I Toast Pine Nuts Without Burning Them?
Toasting pine nuts really enhances their flavor but can be a bit tricky! Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Add the pine nuts to a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Stir them frequently to ensure they toast evenly and don’t burn. This should only take about 2-3 minutes.
- As soon as they turn golden and fragrant, remove them from the heat immediately. They can burn quickly, so stay close!
Toasting them releases delicious oils, making your dish taste even better.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Pasta?
Cooking chicken perfectly can make all the difference!
- Cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken, which helps seal in juices and creates a nice sear.
- Cook until the chicken is golden and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes, depending on size.
This method keeps the chicken tender and juicy, complementing the pasta beautifully!
Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables and Flavorings:
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes (red and yellow), halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Cooking:
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Mixing:
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta, with another 15-20 minutes for the chicken and veggies. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to keep warm.
3. Sautéing the Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, until it gets fragrant. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to soften and get a nice char. Season with a bit more salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toasting the Pine Nuts:
While the tomatoes are cooking, grab a small dry pan and heat it over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn golden and aromatic. Make sure to stir frequently to avoid burning them. Once done, remove the pine nuts from heat and set them aside.
5. Bringing It All Together:
Now it’s time to mix everything! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the tomatoes. Then, add the drained pasta and the prepared pesto sauce. Stir everything together well, making sure it’s all coated in the sauce. Warm it through for about 1 to 2 minutes.
6. Final Touch and Serve:
Transfer your delicious pasta mixture to a serving plate. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top, and if you like, add some chopped fresh basil for a lovely garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of your Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts!
This dish is quick, flavorful, and a wonderful balance of textures! Enjoy your homemade meal!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While we use bowtie pasta, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Recipe?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables instead. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even some sautéed mushrooms work wonderfully in this pasta.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep it moist and prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture!
