Penne with Chicken and Pesto is a vibrant, flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente penne, and fragrant basil pesto. The combination of juicy chicken and herbaceous pesto creates a fresh yet comforting meal that feels both hearty and light at the same time. Every bite is coated in rich, aromatic sauce, making it a favorite for pasta lovers.The rich, herbaceous pesto coats every bite, delivering a fresh and savory taste that feels both satisfying and light. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is vibrant, aromatic, and full of classic Italian-inspired flavour.
Chicken and Pesto:
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights as well as relaxed weekend dinners. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, Penne with Chicken and Pesto delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen, proving that great Italian-inspired meals don’t have to be complicated.This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights as well as casual family dinners, thanks to its quick preparation and crowd-pleasing taste. With juicy chicken for protein and pesto adding depth and freshness, Penne with Chicken and Pesto offers a well-balanced meal that feels elegant yet effortless, making it a favorite for everyday cooking.
Pesto originates from Genoa in the Liguria region of Italy, where traditional pesto alla genovese is made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmigiano Reggiano. While classic pesto is typically paired with potatoes or long pasta, modern Italian-American cuisine popularized combining pesto with chicken and penne. This adaptation adds protein and heartiness while maintaining the bright, herbal character of the original sauce.
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Penne with Chicken and Pesto
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic briefly until fragrant.
- Return chicken to the skillet and stir in pesto.
- Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water; toss to coat evenly.
- Fold in cherry tomatoes if using.
- Finish with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality pesto for best flavour.
- Pasta water helps loosen and coat the sauce.
- Dish is best served fresh.
- Chicken can be grilled or pan-seared.
- Adjust pesto quantity to taste.
Tips for Chicken and Pesto:
- Add a splash of cream for a richer version.
- Use whole wheat penne for extra fiber.
- Add spinach or zucchini for more vegetables.
- Toast pine nuts for garnish.
- Finish with lemon zest for brightness.
FAQs for Chicken and Pesto:
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, fusilli or farfalle work well with pesto.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead?
A: It’s best fresh, but can be reheated gently.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: No, but red pepper flakes can be added.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply omit the chicken.
Q: What cheese pairs best with pesto?
A: Parmesan or Pecorino Romano are excellent choices.
Conclusion:
Penne with Chicken and Pesto is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients and classic Italian flavors. With its aromatic pesto, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is ideal for any occasion. Easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.