This tasty chicken pesto pasta is a quick and easy meal! With juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts, it’s full of flavors that make dinner special.
I love how the pesto brings it all together. You can easily mix in some extra veggies, too! It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like a chef, even if you’re just having a lazy night in! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is fun and holds sauces well. If you have other pasta like penne or fusilli, feel free to use that. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives if you’re looking for healthier options!
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are quick to cook and absorb flavors nicely. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work wonderfully too, or for a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or mushrooms for that hearty texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: The sweetness of cherry tomatoes makes this dish shine. If they’re out of season, use canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Pine Nuts: They add a lovely crunch, but if unavailable, try sunflower seeds or walnuts. Just toast them a bit to bring out their flavor.
Pesto: Store-bought pesto is quick, but homemade can be even tastier! You can make it with basil, spinach, or even arugula for a different taste. Nut-free variants are easy with just herbs, garlic, and olive oil.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Start with evenly-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken—this helps to seal in moisture and adds color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook in batches to allow proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Taking these steps will ensure your chicken remains juicy and delicious!
Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow for color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Garnish:
- ½ cup pine nuts
- ½ cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chicken pesto pasta takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but firm). After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Toast the Pine Nuts:
While the pasta is cooking, take a dry skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them until they are golden brown and fragrant, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to stir them frequently to avoid burning. Once done, remove the nuts from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. Roast the Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the minced garlic if you’re using it. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and start to caramelize.
5. Combine Pasta and Ingredients:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the tomatoes. Add the drained pasta and the pesto. Gently toss everything together over low heat until well combined and everything is heated through, which should take about 2 minutes.
6. Serve:
Transfer the delicious pasta mixture to serving plates. For extra flavor and crunch, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley on top.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your easy chicken pesto pasta immediately, and feel free to add a bit more pesto or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top if you like!
This dish beautifully balances the fresh, savory flavors of pesto and juicy tomatoes with tender chicken and delightful crunch from toasted pine nuts—perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner any night of the week!
FAQ – Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Yes, absolutely! You can substitute farfalle with gluten-free pasta like rice pasta or chickpea pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure it’s cooked to al dente.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a little water to avoid drying out the pasta.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also add chickpeas for protein!
What Other Nuts Can Be Used Instead of Pine Nuts?
If you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute them with walnuts, sunflower seeds, or even sliced almonds. Just make sure to toast them for added flavor!
