Teena's Spicy Pesto Chicken and Pasta

Name: Teena's Spicy Pesto Chicken and Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed); 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/3 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon salt; 500 grams chicken breast (sliced into strips); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 400 grams penne pasta; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

40 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

A flavourful fusion of spicy pesto, tender chicken, and al dente pasta that brings a delightful kick to your dinner table.

Prep

15 min

Cook

25 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Teena's Spicy Pesto Chicken and Pasta is a vibrant dish that combines the bold flavours of pesto with a hint of spice and juicy chicken. It's perfect for those who crave a little heat in their meals and enjoy a twist on traditional pasta. This recipe works because it uses a homemade pesto sauce, which allows for customization of spice levels and ensures the freshest flavour. The chicken is seared to perfection, ensuring it remains juicy and tender, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious sauce, making every bite a delight. Ideal for busy weeknights or a special weekend meal, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also satisfying and packed with nutrients. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe promises to impress with its simplicity and taste.

Instructions

Prepare the pesto

In a food processor, combine basil, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, and salt. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Pro tip: For a smoother pesto, add more olive oil gradually.

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sear the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Pro tip: Ensure chicken is in a single layer for even cooking.

Combine chicken and pesto

Reduce heat to low. Add the pesto to the chicken in the skillet and stir to coat the chicken evenly.

Pro tip: Add a splash of reserved pasta water if pesto is too thick.

Mix pasta with sauce

Add cooked pasta to the skillet with chicken and pesto. Toss everything together over low heat until well combined.

Pro tip: Use tongs for easy mixing.

Serve

Divide the spicy pesto chicken and pasta evenly among plates and serve immediately.

Pro tip: Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh basil for a vibrant pesto.
Adjust the chili flakes to control spice levels.
Toast pine nuts for extra depth in flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in Teena's spicy pesto chicken and pasta?

There are approximately 620 calories per serving in Teena's spicy pesto chicken and pasta.

How long does it take to make Teena's spicy pesto chicken and pasta?

It takes about 40 minutes to make Teena's spicy pesto chicken and pasta, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I make Teena's spicy pesto chicken and pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pesto and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Cook the pasta and assemble the dish just before serving.

What type of pasta is best for Teena's spicy pesto chicken and pasta?

Penne pasta is recommended for this dish as it holds the sauce well, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

How can I adjust the spice level in Teena's spicy pesto chicken and pasta?

To adjust the spice level, modify the amount of red chili flakes in the pesto according to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Teena's Spicy Pesto Chicken and Pasta with a fresh green salad and a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce. A chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the dish's herbal notes. To make ahead, prepare the pesto and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition per serving

620

Calories

32g

Protein

30g

Fat

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