This quick and tasty pesto chicken pasta is perfect for busy nights! Just cook chicken, toss in pasta, and mix with vibrant green pesto for a yummy meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its twisty shape, which captures the pesto beautifully. If you don’t have rotini, any pasta shape like penne or farfalle works just as well.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and tender. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option or even use pre-cooked chicken for quicker prep.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil adds flavor, but you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you’re looking for an alternative.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto saves time, but homemade is a nice touch if you have fresh basil. You can also try sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional, but it adds a nice cheesy touch. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative if you’re vegan.
How Can I Cook Chicken Perfectly for This Dish?
Cooking the chicken right is key to making this pasta delicious! Here’s how to do it:
- Use a medium-high heat in your skillet to get a nice sear on the chicken.
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces so they cook quicker and evenly.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This helps them brown rather than steam.
- Cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Taking these simple steps will ensure your chicken is tender and flavorful, making the whole dish shine!
Easy 30-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. Just enough time to get everything ready and enjoy a satisfying meal without the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Sauté the chicken, turning occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s fully cooked and golden brown on the outside.
3. Combine and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat to low. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Stir in the basil pesto, making sure everything is well coated with that delicious sauce. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top and gently toss to combine.
4. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your pasta with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your quick and flavorful pesto chicken pasta!
Happy cooking!
FAQs for Easy 30-Minute Pesto Chicken Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great for holding onto the pesto, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
Can I Prepare this Recipe with Leftover Chicken?
Yes! Using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a fantastic way to save time. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the skillet when you mix in the pasta and pesto. Just heat it through, and you’re good to go!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little bit of water to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté these veggies in the olive oil until tender, then combine them with the pasta and pesto for a delicious vegetarian dish.
