Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

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Creamy, herb-packed, and loaded with perfectly grilled chicken, this Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is the weeknight dinner you’ve been dreaming of. Twirls of al dente rotini are generously coated in fresh basil pesto and paired with juicy chicken breast slices that bring hearty satisfaction to every bite. It comes together fast but tastes like a dish you could easily serve at a dinner party.

If you’re a fan of vibrant flavors, this pasta has everything you want: garlic, parmesan, olive oil, and that unmistakable punch of basil. Whether you make your own pesto or use a high-quality jarred version, this dish makes a beautiful, satisfying, and well-balanced meal with just the right richness.

Why You’ll Love This Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

This recipe is a delicious solution for those busy days when you still want something fresh and wholesome. The pesto brings brightness, the chicken adds protein, and the pasta holds it all together in a comforting embrace. It’s also customizable, so you can toss in cherry tomatoes, roasted veggies, or even a splash of cream for a richer sauce.

What Kind of Pesto Should I Use?

Homemade basil pesto always shines with flavor, especially when made with fresh basil leaves, good olive oil, and quality parmesan. But don’t hesitate to grab a premium store-bought pesto to save time. Look for one in the refrigerated section for best taste. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in your pesto can take it up a notch.

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Ingredients for the Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays an important role in balancing richness and freshness. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 8 oz rotini pasta – Its spirals hold pesto perfectly, but you can sub with penne or fusilli.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Lean protein that turns golden and juicy when grilled.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the chicken and adding richness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances and balances flavors.
• 2/3 cup basil pesto – The flavor backbone of the entire dish. Use homemade or store-bought.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds salty nuttiness and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional) – Adds color and freshness.
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish – Extra herbaceous touch.

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How To Make the Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of rotini and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season 2 chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing into strips.

Step 3: Combine Pesto and Pasta

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2/3 cup basil pesto. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Stir in 1/4 cup grated parmesan until melted. Add optional cherry tomatoes. Top with sliced chicken and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.

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How to Serve and Store This Pasta

This Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta serves 3 to 4 people comfortably. Serve it warm, garnished with basil and extra parmesan if desired.

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a touch of water or olive oil to revive the sauce.

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What to Serve With Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta?

H3: Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes the perfect scoop for extra pesto sauce.

H3: Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

H3: Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli adds both nutrition and a crispy contrast.

H3: Lemon Asparagus

Quick-sautéed asparagus with lemon zest adds a fresh pop.

H3: Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil echo the Italian flavors in your bowl.

H3: Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred zucchini slices add smoky sweetness.

H3: Antipasto Platter

Cured meats, olives, and marinated veggies round out the meal for guests.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well and hold pesto beautifully.

Is it okay to use store-bought pesto?
Yes! Choose a high-quality refrigerated brand for the best flavor. It saves time and still delivers.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes. Just omit the chicken and replace it with roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein.

How do I keep the pesto from drying out?
Reserve pasta water and add it as needed to maintain a silky sauce. Also, avoid overcooking the pasta after mixing.

Can I freeze this pasta?
While possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh. The pesto may discolor or separate after freezing.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add tomatoes or extra cheese? Did you try a nut-free pesto?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta brings together bold, fresh flavors and comforting pasta in one elegant meal. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests. With a few simple ingredients and a solid pesto, you’ll be amazed how much flavor ends up on your plate.

If you’re looking for more dinner ideas, check out our recipes for Snack Prep Veggie Sticks with Easy Pesto Hummus, Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, or One Pot Smoky Honey BBQ Steak Pasta.

And don’t forget to explore more recipes from my Pinterest: Meals We Share.

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