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Light Pesto Pasta with Chicken

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A fresh and satisfying light pesto pasta with tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and juicy cherry tomatoes, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 250 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
  2. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a pan and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and slice into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
  5. Add cherry tomatoes and cook briefly until softened.
  6. Return the pasta to the pan and add the cooked chicken.
  7. Stir in the pesto and toss until everything is well coated.
  8. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  9. Finish with grated parmesan cheese and optional lemon juice.
  10. Serve warm with extra parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
  • For a creamier texture, mix in a bit of cream or yogurt.
  • Shrimp can be substituted for chicken.
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/light-pesto-pasta-with-chicken/