Zesty Pesto Chicken with Tomato Basil Pasta
Vibrant Pesto Chicken over Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta
Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
250g pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade without alcohol)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions:
Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until fully cooked and golden.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften slightly.
Lower the heat and add the pesto sauce, stirring to coat the chicken and tomatoes evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and lemon juice.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using, and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Serve hot and enjoy the burst of fresh, zesty flavors!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings