If you love bright, fresh flavors combined with comforting pasta, this Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to dishes. It’s a delightful meal that balances tender chunks of cooked chicken with the herbaceous punch of pesto, juicy grape tomatoes, and the subtle nuttiness of parmesan cheese. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant dish to impress friends, this recipe brings together simplicity and fresh ingredients in a way that’s totally satisfying and bursting with color and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe are simple yet essential, each adding its own magic to the overall flavor and texture. From the hearty pasta that forms the base to the fresh tomatoes adding a pop of color and the creamy parmesan that ties everything together, every component is carefully chosen to make this dish sing.
- 2 to 3 cups cooked chicken (cubed): Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and gives you tender, protein-packed bites throughout.
- 16 ounce rotini pasta: These spiral-shaped noodles are perfect for holding onto the luscious pesto sauce.
- 6-8 ounce jar prepared pesto sauce: Ready-made pesto keeps things easy while delivering that classic basil and pine nut flavor blast.
- 2 cups grape tomatoes (halved): Their juicy sweetness and vibrant color brighten the entire dish.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that makes this pasta truly irresistible.
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente — tender but with a little bite to complement the creamy pesto and juicy chicken. Drain and set aside, but save a splash of pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Combine Chicken, Pasta, Pesto, and Tomatoes
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta with the cubed chicken, spoonfuls of fragrant pesto, and halved grape tomatoes. This no-fuss step begins bringing all those wonderful, fresh flavors together in one bowl.
Step 3: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated parmesan over the pasta mixture and gently toss one more time. The cheese will melt slightly from the warmth and add a rich, creamy layer that complements the herbaceous pesto and bright tomatoes.
Step 4: Serve Warm or Cold
This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is wonderfully versatile and delicious both served warm or chilled. Whether you want it straight from the stove or as a refreshing pasta salad for later, this dish adapts beautifully to what you’re craving.
How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil make incredible garnishes, adding a fresh herbal aroma and subtle richness. You can also top with some toasted pine nuts or a few shavings of parmesan to amp up texture and flavor even more.
Side Dishes
The fresh Mediterranean vibes of this Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe pair brilliantly with simple sides like a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. These sides add crunch and a contrasting warmth that balance the bright flavors of the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in hollowed-out tomatoes or small parmesan bowls to impress guests. You can also layer it in a clear bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients or serve on rustic wooden boards with a side of bruschetta for an effortlessly stylish meal presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and get even better after resting, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
Because of the fresh tomatoes and basil in the pesto, freezing this pasta isn’t ideal as those ingredients can become watery or lose their texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated and eaten within a few days.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts stirring in between ensures it heats evenly while preserving that fresh pesto flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding onto the pesto sauce, you can use penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just pick your favorite shape and cook it al dente for the best texture.
Is it necessary to use prepared pesto, or can I make my own?
You can definitely make your own pesto if you have the time — fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil blended together will elevate this dish even more. Prepared pesto is a great time-saver without sacrificing much flavor.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like roasted zucchini, artichokes, or sautéed mushrooms. This will keep the recipe vibrant and full of flavor.
What’s the best way to serve this dish for a party?
Serve the Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe in a large pretty bowl with plenty of serving spoons, and provide toppings like extra parmesan, pine nuts, and fresh basil on the side so guests can customize their plates.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe from start to finish?
From boiling the pasta to tossing everything together, you can have this dish ready in about 25 minutes. It’s a great option when you want something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is truly a gem that balances ease and elegance in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that feels both cozy and fresh, making it endlessly versatile. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe rotation!
Print
Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A simple and flavorful Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe that combines tender cooked chicken, rotini pasta, fresh grape tomatoes, and a rich pesto sauce, topped with grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 to 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed
Pasta
- 16 ounces rotini pasta
Sauce & Toppings
- 6–8 ounce jar prepared pesto sauce
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the rotini pasta according to the package directions, typically boiling in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the cubed cooked chicken, pesto sauce, and halved grape tomatoes until everything is evenly coated and mixed.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and gently toss again to incorporate a bit of the cheese into the pasta mixture.
- Serve: Serve the pasta dish warm or cold based on your preference. It can be enjoyed immediately or chilled for a refreshing pasta salad variation.
Notes
- Use rotini or other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli for best sauce adherence.
- Leftover rotisserie chicken works great to speed up prep time.
- You can add extra veggies such as spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Adjust pesto quantity according to taste and desired sauce coverage.
- For a dairy-free option, omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.
