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Pesto Pasta with Chicken

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Pesto pasta with chicken is a quick, flavorful dish featuring tender pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh pesto sauce. It’s an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep option that’s satisfying and full of vibrant flavor.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, sliced or shredded
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • Optional: fresh basil for garnish
  • Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, or 1 cup baby spinach

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic (if using) until fragrant.
  3. Add cooked chicken to the pan and warm through.
  4. Stir in pesto sauce and a splash of reserved pasta water to create a smooth, silky consistency.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the pesto mixture.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil or optional cherry tomatoes/spinach if using.

Notes

Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream for a creamy version.Great as a warm dish or cold pasta salad.Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.Add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition.Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/pesto-pasta-with-chicken/