Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the vibrant green pesto into the pot of freshly cooked pasta, the inviting aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to sun-drenched Italian hillsides. My latest creation, Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken, is the embodiment of spring’s freshness—a delightful combo of tender chicken and zesty basil that brightens any busy weeknight. Perfect for those of us eager to escape the clutches of fast food, this quick and healthy meal not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a nourishing bite of protein, making it ideal for a family dinner or a cozy evening in. With some lemon zest adding an electrifying twist, you’ll savor every bit of this easy-to-make dish. Are you ready to discover how simple and delicious wholesome cooking can be? Why is this recipe a must-try? Freshness at its peak: This Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken captures spring flavors with bright basil and zesty lemon that will awaken your senses. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have this delightful meal ready in about 30 minutes! Protein-Packed: The tender chicken not only enhances the flavor but also provides satisfying sustenance, making this dish a wholesome option. Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach to elevate the dish even further. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress everyone gathered around the table. If you love fresh flavors, you might also consider trying my Rainbow Chicken Salad for a colorful twist or my Tandoori Chicken Tikka for a spiced kick! Light Pesto Pasta Ingredients Here’s everything you need to whip up this delicious Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken! For the Pasta • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine – Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free or lighter option. For the Chicken • 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips – Pat dry for better browning and flavor enhancement. For the Pesto • 2 cups fresh basil leaves – Fresh basil is key for an aromatic burst; dried basil won’t deliver the same flavor. • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted – They add a delightful nuttiness; walnuts or almonds are great substitutes if needed. • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated will melt smoother into the sauce, enriching its depth and flavor. • 2 garlic cloves – Adds essential aroma; try roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder touch. • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking) – Functions as the emulsifier in your pesto; avocado oil can work as a great alternative. • Zest of 1 lemon – Brightens the whole dish; add a squeeze of lemon juice for added zestiness. • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Critical for balancing flavors; adjust according to your preference. Optional Add-Ins • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – These add a pop of sweetness and color. • A handful of baby spinach – Great for extra nutrients and a touch of brightness. Now that you have all your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to making a delightful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken Step 1: Cook the Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 12 oz of spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Just before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water for later use. Then, carefully drain the pasta and set it aside. Step 2: Sear the Chicken In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Season the 2 sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm. Step 3: Prepare the Pesto In a food processor, combine 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup of toasted pine nuts, 2 garlic cloves, and 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse the mixture while slowly drizzling in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, creating a smooth pesto. If the mixture is too thick, you can gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water until you achieve your desired consistency. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Return the golden-brown chicken to the skillet over medium heat. Add the drained pasta and the vibrant pesto to the skillet, gently tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce. Stir in the zest of one lemon and splash in a little reserved pasta water if needed to reach a silky texture. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Once everything is well combined, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper if necessary. Serve your delightful Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken immediately, garnishing with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired, to enhance the presentation and flavor. Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken Variations Feel free to explore endless possibilities with your Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken, creating unique flavors that excite your palate! Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Gluten-Free: Swap spaghetti or linguine for gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs. Extra Veggies: Add 1 cup of peas or sun-dried tomatoes to the mix for a colorful twist and added sweetness. Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a vibrant heat that elevates the dish. Creamy Texture: Mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream for a richer sauce that adds luxurious creaminess. Herb Mix: Combine basil with arugula or parsley for a different herbal profile that brightens the dish uniquely. Nutty Variation: Experiment with walnut or almond pesto instead of pine nuts for a delightful change in flavor. The nutty essence works beautifully! Seafood Option: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a fresh seafood twist that pairs wonderfully with pesto. If you’re looking for more deliciousness, consider serving this alongside my refreshing Rainbow Chicken Salad to add a colorful crunch to your meal or enjoy a warming dish like Chicken Etouffee Savory for a comforting evening in! Make Ahead Options These Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in olive oil and lemon zest up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances flavor and tenderness. Additionally, the pesto can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just be sure to press plastic wrap directly against the surface to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, reheat the chicken and pesto together, and toss everything with a splash of reserved pasta water for that creamy consistency. With these steps, you can enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort, all while savoring the freshness of spring in each delightful bite! What to Serve with Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken Imagine a delightful table setting that enhances the joy of sharing a meal with family and friends—each dish complimenting this delicious pasta dish perfectly. Crispy Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery side is perfect for soaking up any extra pesto—a classic pairing that’s hard to resist! The crunch adds texture to your meal. Arugula Salad: Lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette, this peppery salad brings freshness that balances the richness of the pesto, making each bite refreshing. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add heartiness and a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the dish. Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of this crisp white wine cuts through the lush flavors of the pesto, adding a sophisticated touch to your dining experience. Fruit Sorbet: As a light dessert, this frozen treat offers a fruity contrast to your meal, cleansing the palate and rounding out your dining experience beautifully. Parmesan Crisps: Simple and easy to make, these savory crisps serve as an exciting nibble alongside your pasta, adding a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: For seafood lovers, these add a delightful touch of smokiness and pair beautifully with the pasta, infusing your meal with a coastal vibe. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness enhances the flavors of the pesto, providing a lovely contrast to the savory elements of the dish. With these delightful options, your Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken becomes the heart of a memorable dining experience! Expert Tips for Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken Pat Dry Chicken: Always pat the chicken dry before cooking to enhance browning and lock in flavor, ensuring a deliciously crispy outside. Control Sauce Thickness: Gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve the desired pesto consistency; too much can make your dish watery. Pulse Pesto Wisely: Avoid over-processing the pesto; blend just until combined to retain the fresh, vibrant flavors of basil. Add a Citrus Kick: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the pasta right before serving. Customize Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or nuts in the pesto, making this Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken uniquely yours! How to Store and Freeze Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your dish fresh while maintaining its delightful flavor. Freezer: If you want to preserve it longer, freeze the pasta and chicken in suitable containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to label them with the date for easy tracking. Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help revive the pesto’s silkiness. Avoid Refreezing: It’s best not to refreeze thawed pasta, as it can alter the texture and flavor. Enjoy it freshly prepared for the best experience! Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe and fresh basil for pesto? Absolutely! Look for vibrant green basil leaves without any dark spots or signs of wilting. The freshest basil will have a strong, aromatic scent. If the leaves are dull or have dark spots, it’s best to choose another batch, as these could indicate age or damage. How should I store leftover Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, but it’s best to consume them sooner for peak freshness. When reheating, just add a splash of water to maintain that delicious texture of the pesto. Can I freeze this pasta dish? Very! To freeze your Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken, first ensure it’s completely cooled. Portion the pasta and chicken into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion, and label them with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to revive the sauce. What if my pesto turns out too thick? No worries! If your pesto is overly thick, simply add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta cooking water to help loosen it. Blend it again briefly to incorporate the water until you reach your desired consistency. The reserved water is perfect for adjusting thickness without losing flavor. Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe? Certainly! This Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken is naturally gluten-free if you use the gluten-free pasta option. However, make sure to check that the Parmesan cheese is suitable for your dietary needs, especially for lactose intolerance. Additionally, if you’re preparing this dish for pets, keep in mind that this recipe is not suitable for them due to the garlic and cheese, which can be harmful in large quantities. Always consult your vet for pet nutrition. Can I add more vegetables to the dish? The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrients. Simply toss them in the skillet with the chicken or mix them into the pasta when combining with pesto for a delightful twist on your Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken. Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken: A Fresh, Quick Delight No ratings yet Light Pesto Pasta With Chicken is a quick and healthy meal that combines tender chicken with zesty basil, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 oz spaghetti or linguine Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.For the Chicken2 breasts chicken, sliced into strips Pat dry for better browning.For the Pesto2 cups fresh basil leaves Fresh basil is key.1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted Walnuts or almonds are great substitutes.1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is best.2 cloves garlic Try roasted garlic for a sweeter touch.2 tbsp olive oil Plus extra for cooking.1 zest lemon Add a squeeze of lemon juice for more flavor.Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.Optional Add-Ins1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and color.1 handful baby spinach For extra nutrients. Equipment large potSkilletFood Processor Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water before draining.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate to keep warm.In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse while drizzling in olive oil to create a smooth pesto. Add reserved pasta cooking water if needed.Return chicken to the skillet, add drained pasta and pesto, tossing to coat. Stir in lemon zest and additional pasta water for desired texture.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan and olive oil. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesPat chicken dry before cooking to enhance browning. Gradually add pasta water to achieve desired pesto consistency. Customize with your favorite vegetables or nuts. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
