Ingredients:
For the Basil Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts (toasted)
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 ounces (about 3 cups) of your favorite pasta (such as penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Basil Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts or walnuts, and peeled garlic cloves.
- Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
2. Gradually Add Olive Oil:
- With the food processor running, slowly pour in the extra-virgin olive oil through the feed tube.
- Continue processing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Cook until they start to soften.
5. Combine Pasta, Pesto, and Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the homemade basil pesto until well coated.
- Add the cooked chicken and cherry tomatoes and gently toss to combine.
6. Serve:
- Divide the pesto pasta with chicken among serving plates.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious pesto pasta with chicken!
This pesto pasta with chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of basil pesto along with tender and succulent chicken pieces. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. Bon appétit!