Basil Pesto Chicken Penne: A Flavorful and Easy Meal

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful pasta dish that’s quick to make and bursting with fresh ingredients, the Basil Pesto Chicken Penne is the perfect choice. This recipe brings together the rich and aromatic flavors of basil pesto, tender chicken, and hearty penne pasta, making it a satisfying meal that will please both pasta lovers and those seeking something more savory. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ideal dish for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

The creamy pesto sauce infuses each bite of the chicken and pasta with a burst of herbaceous flavor, while the Parmesan cheese adds a layer of savory depth. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this dish is a breeze to prepare yet feels like a restaurant-quality meal. Whether you’re feeding the family or preparing a dinner for guests, the Basil Pesto Chicken Penne is sure to be a hit at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh and Flavorful

The basil pesto brings a bright, herbaceous flavor to the dish, making it incredibly refreshing and vibrant.

2. Quick and Easy

This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

3. Comforting and Filling

With hearty penne pasta, tender chicken, and rich pesto, this dish is satisfying enough to serve as a complete meal.

4. Simple Ingredients

The recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful, wholesome dish that everyone will love.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the recipe by adding vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Basil pesto
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Variations

1. Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
2. Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick.
3. Swap the Chicken: Replace chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option.
4. Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream to the pesto for a creamy version of the dish.
5. Use Different Pasta: Feel free to swap the penne for other types of pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until it is no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Pesto

In the same skillet, add the cooked pasta, chicken, basil pesto, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the dish hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Make sure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Fresh Pesto: If possible, use homemade basil pesto for the best flavor, but store-bought pesto works just fine too.
• Pasta Water: If the dish seems too dry, add a little reserved pasta water to help loosen the pesto sauce.
• Balance the Flavors: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or additional Parmesan cheese as needed.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If your skillet is too small, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns properly.

How to Serve

Basil Pesto Chicken Penne is great served on its own or with a side of garlic bread, a light salad, or steamed vegetables. A refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would pair beautifully with the herby, savory flavors of the dish. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

Freezing

This dish may not freeze well due to the pesto sauce. The texture of the pesto may change upon freezing and thawing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a pan over low heat with a little extra pesto or olive oil to bring the dish back to its original consistency. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, spaghetti, or farfalle.

2. Can I make my own pesto?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan is a great way to elevate this dish.

3. Can I use grilled chicken instead of pan-seared?

Yes, grilled chicken will work wonderfully and add a smoky flavor to the dish.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can skip the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes.

5. Can I add extra cheese?

Yes, adding more Parmesan or even mozzarella will make the dish even more indulgent and cheesy.

6. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

7. Can I add nuts to this dish?

Yes, toasted pine nuts or walnuts would make a nice addition for crunch and extra flavor.

8. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the pasta and chicken can be cooked ahead of time, it’s best to combine everything right before serving for the freshest flavor.

10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta and still enjoy this dish.

Conclusion

Basil Pesto Chicken Penne is the ultimate combination of fresh flavors, creamy pesto, and tender chicken, making it a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a meal to impress guests, this recipe is versatile, easy to make, and incredibly flavorful. Customize it with your favorite add-ins, and you’ll have a delicious pasta dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

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