When it comes to creating a meal that balances comfort with elegance, few dishes can compete with Pesto Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This vibrant and flavorful dish was a delightful surprise at my family dinner table last week. As the aroma wafted through the kitchen, it gathered everyone around, eager to taste what promised to be a new favorite. The earthy richness of the pesto combined with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and succulent pieces of chicken created a symphony of flavors that was both satisfying and refreshing. Even my picky eaters were won over, and I knew this recipe was a keeper. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Ingredients
To make this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup of pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to whip up this delicious meal:
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir in the pesto sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until all ingredients are heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the pasta topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
This recipe serves 4 and contains approximately 550 calories per serving. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal that includes protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Preparation Time
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
How to Serve
- Plate the pasta in shallow bowls for easy eating and presentation.
- Serve with a side salad of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- Add a slice of garlic bread for a heartier meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the pesto.
- For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled sparkling water with a slice of lemon works well.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your cooking experience:
- Use fresh pesto: Homemade pesto can elevate the dish, but store-bought works in a pinch.
- Chicken alternatives: Try using rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
- Sun-dried tomato oil: Don’t waste the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes; use it to sauté the garlic for extra flavor.
- Add vegetables: Consider adding sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for more color and nutrients.
- Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a flavor twist.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Pesto Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes? You can use cherry tomatoes as a fresh alternative.
- How long can I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this dish? It’s not recommended to freeze due to the texture changes in pasta and pesto.
- What other pasta shapes work well? Any short pasta like rigatoni or farfalle will work perfectly.