This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a yummy mix of juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts all tossed in tasty pesto sauce. It’s colorful and brings a burst of flavor to your plate!
I love how quick this dish comes together—perfect for busy nights or when friends drop by. Plus, those little pine nuts add a nice crunch. Who can resist that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is fun due to its unique shape. However, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Choose whole wheat for a healthier option.
Cherry tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If they aren’t available, try using grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes as a last resort.
Pesto: Store-bought pesto is quick and easy, but homemade is a fantastic choice if you have fresh basil. You can also use spinach or arugula as a base for a fresh twist.
Pine nuts: If you can’t find pine nuts, try walnuts or almonds. They won’t taste exactly the same, but they’ll still add a nice crunch.
How Do I Roast Tomatoes Perfectly?
Roasting your tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. Follow these simple steps for great results:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before adding the tomatoes.
- Spread halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap much.
- Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for about 20 minutes or until they become blistered and caramelized.
Moving tomatoes around halfway through roasting helps cook them evenly. The result is deliciously rich tomatoes that elevate your pasta!
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta With Tomatoes And Pine Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Protein and Sauce:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Finishing Touches:
- 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend around 20 minutes roasting the tomatoes and preparing the pasta, with some quick steps in between. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Tomatoes:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 400°F (200°C). Take a baking sheet and spread the halved cherry tomatoes on it. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Pop the baking sheet in the oven and roast the tomatoes for about 20 minutes, or until they look blistered and caramelized. This will add a lovely flavor!
2. Cook the Pasta:
While your tomatoes are roasting, it’s time to cook the farfalle pasta. Follow the package instructions and cook it until it’s al dente (which means it’ll be firm but not hard). Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. You want it to be ready for mixing!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, roasted tomatoes, shredded chicken, and basil pesto. Mix everything gently until the pasta is well coated with the pesto. The flavors will start to come together beautifully!
4. Toast the Pine Nuts:
Now, grab a dry skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them for about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep stirring frequently to prevent them from burning. You want them to turn golden and give off a lovely nutty aroma!
5. Mix it All Together:
Once the pine nuts are toasted, add them to the pasta mixture you made earlier and gently fold everything together. Make sure the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Dish out the pasta while it’s warm, and top each serving with fresh basil. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top as a finishing touch. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute farfalle with any pasta shape you prefer such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta you’re using.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for added flavor and texture. You can also use a plant-based pesto for a fully vegetarian dish.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from drying out, you might want to add a splash of olive oil before storing. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little water or broth to loosen it up if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Pine Nuts?
If you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute with other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or sliced almonds. Alternatively, sunflower seeds make a great nut-free option that still adds a nice crunch!
