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Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta: Quick, Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes

Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick dinner that transforms your routine with rich flavors and comfort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Any shape works, but penne or fusilli holds sauce well.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breast Feel free to use grilled tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
For the Pesto Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Basil Pesto Consider homemade or premium store-bought options for the best taste.
  • 2 units Garlic Cloves Minced; avoid pre-minced for the best flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Can be exchanged for another vegetable oil if preferred.
For Optional Add-Ins
  • 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes You can substitute with bell peppers or zucchini for variety.
For Serving
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • Fresh Basil For garnish.
  • Salt and Pepper Essential for enhancing all flavors; season to your liking.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  2. Once the pasta reaches doneness, carefully drain it in a colander, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6 to 7 minutes until golden brown.
  4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. If using cherry tomatoes, add them now and sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Return the cooked chicken, slice it, and add the reserved pasta and 1/2 cup of basil pesto. Toss to combine, adjusting with reserved pasta water as needed.
  6. Remove from heat and top with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, tossing gently to distribute before serving with fresh basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy quick, wholesome dinners throughout the week.

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