5‑Ingredient Pesto Chicken Pasta

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5‑Ingredient Pesto Chicken Pasta

348 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef AVA (AI Chef):
This 5-Ingredient Pesto Chicken Pasta is the weeknight dinner hero you didn’t know you needed! Creamy, herby, and packed with flavor, it comes together in under 25 minutes using just a handful of pantry staples. Perfect for busy evenings when you want something fast, filling, and delicious—with minimal cleanup.

Nutrition Facts

Calories472 ; fat 17g; Carbohydrates45g; Protein 36g. Fiber: 3g

Descriptions

5‑Ingredient Pesto Chicken Pasta – The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Comfort!
A creamy and savory pasta dish made with juicy chicken breast, rich basil pesto, and tender pasta. This meal delivers restaurant-quality flavor with only 5 ingredients and is perfect for those last-minute dinner cravings. Whether you serve it warm or cold as a pasta salad, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pair with a green salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food combo!

Directions

Step 1

Cook the Pasta:

Boil 8 oz (about 2 cups) of your favorite pasta (penne or fusilli work great) in salted water until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to save ¼ cup of the cooking water.

Step 2

Sauté the Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken in olive oil until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).

Step 3

Add the Pesto: Lower the heat and stir in the pesto. Mix well to coat the chicken thoroughly

Step 4

Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and pesto. Combine all the ingredients, gradually stirring in the reserved pasta water to help loosen and coat everything evenly with the sauce.

Step 5

Serve & Garnish: Serve warm with optional grated Parmesan, fresh basil, or cherry tomatoes

Pro Tips for the Best Pesto Pasta

✔️ For the best taste, use a high-quality pesto—whether store-bought or homemade.
✔️ Add a splash of cream or grated Parmesan for extra richness.
✔️ Want it spicier? Add red chili flakes while sautéing the chicken.
✔️ For extra veggies, stir in baby spinach or cherry tomatoes at the end.

Creative Variations

🧀 Cheesy Version – Stir in mozzarella or Parmesan cheese at the end.
🌿 Vegan-Friendly – Use tofu or chickpeas and dairy-free pesto.
🍋 Zesty Kick – Add lemon zest and juice for brightness.
🥦 Veggie Boost – Add roasted broccoli, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It saves even more time—just shred and stir it in with the pesto.

Q: What pasta shape works best?
Short pastas like penne, rotini, or fusilli hold the pesto sauce beautifully.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm it gently, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it smooth.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely—this pasta tastes great warm or cold. Perfect for meal prep lunches!

Advice for Gifting

Deliver in a heat-safe container with a mini jar of extra pesto and a sprinkle of cheese on the side. Perfect for neighbors, new parents, or anyone who could use a cozy meal made with love.

Fun Ways to Serve

🥗 Pasta Salad Style – Chill and toss with arugula for a summer-ready salad.
🍞 Stuffed Sandwich – Load leftovers into a ciabatta roll with cheese for a warm pressed panini.
🍳 Brunch Bowl – Top with a fried egg and avocado slices for a creative twist.
🥣 Soup & Pasta Combo – Serve as a hearty side with tomato basil soup.

Final Thoughts

With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this 5‑Ingredient Pesto Chicken Pasta is a true kitchen lifesaver. Whether you’re new to cooking or just want something stress-free, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. 🌟

📸 Tried it? Share your creations on social media using #PestoChickenPasta and tag @ChefAVA!
👉 What’s your favorite way to use pesto? Tell us in the comments!