If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this pesto chicken penne is a perfect choice. It’s packed with flavor and comes together in no time, making it an ideal dinner for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant basil pesto, each bite is a burst of deliciousness.
This recipe allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home without the fuss. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty penne creates a delightful harmony of tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Understanding Pesto Chicken Penne
Pesto chicken penne is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that satisfies both the palate and the soul. This dish features al dente penne pasta enveloped in a vibrant basil pesto sauce, creating an inviting look that beckons the hungry. The addition of grilled chicken pieces adds a substantial protein element, ensuring that it’s both filling and nourishing.
The Heart of the Dish: Basil Pesto
The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the basil pesto.
This sauce, made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, creates a rich and aromatic blend that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Its bright green color not only signifies freshness but also contributes to the dish’s visual appeal.
Cooking the Perfect Pasta
Cooking the penne to perfection is essential for achieving that ideal texture.
Al dente pasta has a slight bite that complements the creamy pesto sauce, making for a delicious mouthfeel.
Boiling in salted water is key, as it elevates the pasta’s flavor right from the start.
Grilling Chicken to Juicy Perfection
Juicy grilled chicken is fundamental in making this dish a hearty meal.
It is seasoned simply to allow the flavors of the pesto and pasta to shine.
Sautéing the chicken until heated through ensures it remains tender, adding a savory depth that balances the freshness of the basil.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
Presentation plays a vital role in the enjoyment of any dish.
For pesto chicken penne, garnishing with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves adds a burst of color and freshness.
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top not only enhances the flavor but also enriches the visual appeal when plated on a rustic wood table.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a well-rounded nutritional profile.
Offering four servings, each plate contains approximately 450 calories, featuring a balanced mix of protein and carbohydrates.
It’s a fantastic option for family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Delicious Pesto Chicken Penne
This pesto chicken penne is a delightful mix of tender grilled chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and aromatic basil pesto, creating a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. Each bite offers a taste of freshness with a hint of nuttiness from the pine nuts in the pesto.
The creamy texture of the sauce wraps around the pasta and chicken beautifully, making this recipe a go-to for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes, halved for garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until heated through.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked penne, basil pesto, and heavy cream to the skillet with the chicken. Stir until everything is evenly coated and heated thoroughly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional minute until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve: Plate the pesto chicken penne and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
