Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines the rich, herbaceous notes of pesto, tender chicken, and burst-in-your-mouth cherry tomatoes. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a delicious Italian-inspired meal, this recipe is your ticket to dinner perfection!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup tomato pesto
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the shredded chicken. If using pre-cooked chicken, ensure it is warmed through. If cooking raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet over medium heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 6-7 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water to help create a smoother sauce if needed.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and add tomato pesto. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly, using reserved pasta water to help distribute the sauce if it seems too thick.
- Add the shredded chicken and halved cherry tomatoes to the pasta. Stir gently to combine and heat through.
- Season the pasta with additional salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving platter. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, to add a bright, aromatic finish to the dish.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the blend of flavors from the pesto, chicken, and fresh herbs.
Tips
- Pasta Cooking Hack: Always salt your pasta water generously – it should taste like the sea! This is your only chance to season the pasta from the inside out.
- Pesto Pro Tip: If your tomato pesto seems too thick, use the reserved pasta water to create a silky, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to every pasta strand.
- Chicken Cooking Wisdom: For maximum flavor and tenderness, consider using rotisserie chicken or quickly searing fresh chicken breasts to lock in moisture.
- Fresh is Best: The fresh basil garnish isn't just for looks – it adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prep the chicken and chop ingredients in advance to make weeknight cooking a breeze.
- Cheese Recommendation: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt more beautifully and provide a more intense flavor compared to pre-packaged cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
