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Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts

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Chicken Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is a quick and delicious meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and juicy cherry tomatoes, finished with crunchy pine nuts. In just under 30 minutes, you can enjoy this comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your dining table. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe is as versatile as it is delightful!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
  • 1 cup fresh basil pesto
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
  3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Return the cooked pasta to the skillet along with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and pesto. Toss gently over low heat until heated through.
  5. Toast pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown (about 3 minutes).
  6. Serve the pasta topped with toasted pine nuts and an optional drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled vegetables for a lighter meal option. For added flavor, sprinkle chili flakes or substitute pine nuts with walnuts. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of olive oil.

Find it online: https://recipenosh.com/irresistible-chicken-pesto-pasta-with-tomatoes-pine-nuts/