Name: Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine); 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup creamy pesto sauce; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil, for garnishing; Extra pesto, for drizzling (optional)

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Introduction

This Pesto Pasta with Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender shredded chicken, creamy pesto, and fresh cherry tomatoes, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes.

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken

1 cup creamy pesto sauce
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil, to taste
Extra pesto, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and return to the pot.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, shred the cooked chicken if not already shredded and slice the cherry tomatoes.
Step 3: Add the shredded chicken and creamy pesto sauce to the pasta, stirring well to combine.
Step 4: Fold in the sliced cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until evenly mixed.
Step 6: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of extra pesto if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.

Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes to intensify flavor.
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

Storage

Store leftover pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra pesto to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pesto instead of creamy pesto sauce?

Yes, fresh pesto works well. You may want to add a little extra cream or olive oil to achieve a creamier texture similar to the creamy pesto sauce.

Is this dish good served cold or as a pasta salad?

While designed to be served warm, this pesto pasta can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad. Toss the ingredients together and chill before serving for a refreshing option.