"Deliciously Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe for a Quick Weeknight Dinner"

#### Chicken Pesto Pasta RecipeIf you're looking for a quick and delicious meal that can be whipped up in no time, this **chicken pesto pasta recipe** is th……

#### Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal that can be whipped up in no time, this **chicken pesto pasta recipe** is the perfect solution. Combining succulent chicken, vibrant pesto, and al dente pasta, this dish is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe will impress everyone at the table.

#### Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

- **2 chicken breasts** (boneless, skinless)

- **8 ounces of pasta** (your choice - penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)

- **1 cup of pesto** (store-bought or homemade)

- **1 tablespoon of olive oil**

- **Salt and pepper** (to taste)

- **Parmesan cheese** (for garnish)

- **Cherry tomatoes** (optional, for garnish)

- **Fresh basil** (for garnish)

#### Instructions

1. **Cook the Pasta**: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. **Prepare the Chicken**: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

3. **Combine Ingredients**: In the same skillet, add the cooked pasta and pesto. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency. The heat from the pasta will help warm the pesto and coat the pasta beautifully.

4. **Serve**: Add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful chicken pesto pasta!

#### Tips for Success

- **Pesto**: If you have time, making your own pesto can elevate this dish even further. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a fresh and vibrant sauce.

- **Vegetable Add-ins**: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

- **Meal Prep**: This dish is great for meal prepping. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

#### Conclusion

This **chicken pesto pasta recipe** is not only simple and quick to prepare, but it's also a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to your liking. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy this delightful meal that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen!