Are you in the mood for a hearty yet quick meal that bursts with flavor? Look no further! Pasta pesto with chicken is an irresistible recipe that’s sure to please your taste buds and fill your belly. With creamy pesto sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into how to make this easy and scrumptious meal!
Introduction to Pasta Pesto with Chicken
Pasta pesto with chicken is a classic Italian dish that brings together the rich taste of creamy pesto sauce and the juicy, flavorful chicken. This recipe is both simple and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for a weekday dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:
- 300 grams of pasta: Any type of pasta works, but we recommend spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
- 400 grams of chicken fillet: Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 onion: Finely chopped.
- 250 milliliters of cream: Adds a creamy texture to the sauce.
- 250 grams of cherry tomatoes: Halved for a burst of color and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
- Dash of olive oil: To sauté the onion and chicken.
- 60 grams of roasted pine nuts: For a nutty crunch.
- Handful of arugula: Adds a peppery bite.
- 4 tablespoons of pesto: Homemade or ready-made.
Preparation
Cooking the Pasta
Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, chop the onion and sauté it in a dash of olive oil until translucent. Add the chicken fillet pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Making the Pesto Sauce
Add the cream and pesto to the chicken and onions. Stir well to combine and let it simmer gently for a few minutes. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed.
Combining the Dish
Once the sauce has simmered, add the cooked pasta to the pan. Stir everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy pesto sauce. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another minute to warm them through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pasta pesto with chicken directly from the pan or transfer it to a serving dish. Top with roasted pine nuts for crunch and arugula for a touch of freshness. For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle grated cheese on top.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with vegetarian chicken pieces or tofu for a meatless version.
- Additional Veggies: Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more color and flavor.
- Pasta Choices: Experiment with different pasta shapes like rigatoni or fettuccine to see what you like best.
Conclusion
Pasta pesto with chicken is a versatile and delicious recipe that you can easily whip up for a cozy dinner at home. With its creamy pesto sauce and juicy chicken, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Try it out and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even pork for a different twist on this recipe.
2. What kind of pesto should I use?
You can use either homemade pesto or ready-made pesto from the store. Choose one that suits your taste preferences.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream and pesto for a dairy-free version of this dish.
4. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
5. Can I use other types of nuts instead of pine nuts?
Yes, you can experiment with nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
Give pasta pesto with chicken a try and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this delightful dish!
