Easy 30-Minute Chicken Pesto Pasta

This quick and delicious chicken pesto pasta is the perfect meal for busy weeknights. Made with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a flavorful basil pesto sauce, it’s a dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Rich & Flavorful: The combination of basil pesto, juicy chicken, and Parmesan creates a bold and satisfying taste.
• Customizable: Easily add veggies, switch up the protein, or use different pasta types.
• Great for Meal Prep: This pasta stores well and reheats beautifully for leftovers.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Combine with Pasta and Pesto: Lower the heat to medium. Add the cooked pasta and pesto to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Add Finishing Touches: Stir in cherry tomatoes and let them warm for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and pine nuts (if using) on top.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Pesto Pasta: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Use a Different Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a delicious twist.
• Make it Low-Carb: Substitute regular pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Freezing: While pesto-based pasta is best fresh, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes! Store-bought pesto works great for convenience, but homemade pesto will add a fresher taste.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle holds the sauce well, but spaghetti or linguine also work.

How do I prevent the pesto from drying out?

Reserve some pasta water and mix it in to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves even more time.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and makes a great lunch for the next day.

What can I use instead of Parmesan?

Try Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the chicken or replace it with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan, or use a plant-based cheese substitute.

What if I don’t have pine nuts?

Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds can be used as a substitute in the pesto or as a topping.

Can I make pesto from scratch?

Yes! Blend 2 cups of fresh basil, 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 2 cloves garlic, 1/2 cup olive oil, and salt to taste for homemade pesto.

Conclusion

This easy 30-minute chicken pesto pasta is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, it’s a go-to dish you’ll want to make again and again!

Print