Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta Delight

Name: Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 500 g pasta (penne or fusilli); 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 200 g cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

50 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savoury grilled chicken and basil pesto pasta, accented with cherry tomatoes.

Prep

20 min

Cook

25 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a classic dish that marries the rich flavours of basil pesto with tender grilled chicken and juicy cherry tomatoes. This dish is not only satisfying but also vibrant, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. The freshness of homemade pesto and the smoky taste of grilled chicken provide a delightful contrast to the al dente pasta, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavours. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward yet impressive.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Pro tip: For best results, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling.

Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part.

Pro tip: Avoid flipping the chicken too often to ensure even cooking.

Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.

Pro tip: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.

Combine Pasta and Pesto

In a large bowl, toss the hot pasta with pesto, adding reserved pasta water gradually until desired sauce consistency is achieved.

Pro tip: Adding pasta water helps the pesto coat the pasta smoothly.

Assemble the Dish

Add sliced grilled chicken and cherry tomatoes to the pasta. Toss gently to combine.

Pro tip: Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh basil for an aromatic pesto.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Grill chicken to 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Rest chicken before slicing to lock in juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should you grill chicken for pesto pasta?

Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What temperature should chicken be cooked to?

Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.

Can I use store-bought pesto for chicken pasta?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly for this recipe, but homemade pesto can add a fresher taste.

What type of pasta is best for pesto?

Penne or fusilli pasta is ideal as their shapes hold the pesto sauce well.

Can I make chicken pesto pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the chicken and prepare the pesto in advance. Store them separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Pesto Pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavour. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a chilled glass of white wine for a complete meal. This dish can be prepared ahead by grilling the chicken and making the pesto a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken gently before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and enjoyed cold or reheated.

Nutrition per serving

620

Calories

40g

Protein

28g

Fat

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Medium40 min

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