Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta

Name: Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of your choice; Salt, for boiling water; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of grilled chicken paired with a creamy pesto sauce tossed with pasta for a quick and delicious meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:02:31.363Z

This Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that brings together the smoky taste of grilled chicken and the fresh, aromatic notes of basil pesto. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful combination of smoky grilled chicken and fresh basil pesto
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
Creamy and satisfying, guaranteed to please everyone

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta is an incredibly versatile dish that suits a variety of occasions. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this recipe fits the bill. The combination of smoky grilled chicken and fresh, vibrant pesto creates a satisfying dish that appeals to both adults and children alike.

The recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can swap out the chicken for shrimp or even make it vegetarian by adding seasonal vegetables. This adaptability makes it a great choice for entertaining, family gatherings, or simply enjoying a cozy night in.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. Combined with whole grain pasta (if you choose that option), it provides complex carbohydrates that fuel your body and keep you energized throughout the day.

Furthermore, the fresh basil in the pesto sauce is packed with antioxidants and essential vitamins. Olive oil and pine nuts contribute healthy fats, making this meal a balanced option that supports heart health. Enjoying Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta is a way to treat yourself while still making a health-conscious choice.

Tips for the Best Result

To elevate your Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours prior to grilling. A simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic can infuse the chicken with flavor and moisture, resulting in a juicier bite. Additionally, ensuring your grill pan is preheated will give the chicken those beautiful grill marks and a smoky flavor.

When making the pesto, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing. For a creamier texture, adding a touch of cream or Greek yogurt to the pesto can enhance the richness of the sauce, making it even more delightful.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz pasta of your choice
Salt, for boiling water

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pesto Sauce

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting to cook.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.

Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Make the Pesto Sauce

In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts, and garlic. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce until well coated. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top and mix gently.

Serve

Plate the pasta and chicken, and optionally sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy your meal!

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers of this delicious Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta, you're in luck! The dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a great option for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal throughout the week.

When reheating, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat. You may want to add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Pairing Suggestions

To make your meal even more enjoyable, consider pairing your Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta with a crisp garden salad. A light vinaigrette dressing can complement the rich flavors of the pesto and chicken. For a touch of elegance, serve it alongside a glass of chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which beautifully enhances the dish.

For those looking to add a bit more texture, garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables can round out the meal. The combination of flavors and textures will make your dining experience even more delightful, leaving everyone at the table satisfied.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, using store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still delicious.

→ What can I substitute for pine nuts?

You can use walnuts or almonds as a substitute for pine nuts in the pesto.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.