This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a tasty mix of tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts all tossed with creamy pesto. It’s colorful and bursting with flavor!
You won’t believe how quick this dish comes together. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something yummy without spending hours in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is a fun choice for this dish, but you can swap it out for any pasta you enjoy. Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well too. Just ensure they are cooked to al dente for the best texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These tiny gems are perfect for adding a burst of sweetness. If you can’t find them, regular tomatoes chopped into smaller pieces can serve as a great alternative. Just watch for ripeness!
Cooked Chicken: Using cooked chicken speeds things up. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken from another meal. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies.
Pesto: Store-bought pesto saves time, but homemade is fantastic if you have fresh basil and a bit of time. If you need a nut-free option, try sunflower seed pesto or simply omit it altogether.
Pine Nuts: These add a lovely crunch, but if they’re hard to find or too pricey, walnuts or sunflower seeds can make good substitutes. Just toast them to bring out their flavors!
How Do I Properly Toast Pine Nuts?
Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor and brings out a lovely crunch. Here’s how you do it:
- Use a small, dry skillet and heat it over medium heat. No oil is needed!
- Add the pine nuts and stir them frequently to prevent burning.
- Keep toasting for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and smell nutty. Make sure to keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly!
- Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and let them cool before adding to your pasta.
This step is crucial for bringing out the best flavor in your Chicken Pesto Pasta!
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick, tasty dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Cherry Tomatoes:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to blister and soften.
3. Add Chicken to the Skillet:
Once the tomatoes are ready, add the diced cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. This adds flavor to your dish!
4. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
Next, add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the pesto. Mix everything together well so that the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto and the chicken and tomatoes are evenly distributed.
5. Toast the Pine Nuts:
In a separate small dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat. Stir them frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Once done, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Add Basil:
After ensuring the pasta is heated through, remove the skillet from heat and gently mix in the chopped basil. This will add a fresh and aromatic flavor to your pasta!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the pasta on plates or in a large bowl. Top each serving with the toasted pine nuts, extra basil, and, if you like, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute farfalle with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions of the pasta you choose for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Pine Nuts?
If you’re looking for a substitute for pine nuts, try using walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds. Each will add a slightly different flavor but will still provide a nice crunch to your dish. Just toast them similarly for added flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You could also include chickpeas for protein. Just sauté them along with the tomatoes for a delicious and hearty vegetarian dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Enjoy within a few days for the best taste!
