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Easy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Easy Pesto Chicken Pasta

A quick and flavorful chicken pasta tossed in homemade basil pesto sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup chicken breast diced
  • 0.25 cup pine nuts toasted
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  • In a food processor, combine basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and olive oil; blend until smooth to make the pesto.
  • Heat a skillet over medium heat, add diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
  • Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce and cooked chicken until well combined.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain pesto flavor.