Description
A flavorful, satisfying pasta dish made with juicy seared chicken, penne pasta, and vibrant basil pesto—tossed with parmesan and ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Slice into strips.
- Toss pasta, chicken, and pesto in skillet. Add pasta water if needed.
- Stir in parmesan and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use homemade or quality store-bought pesto.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or keep it vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms.
- Stir in a splash of cream for a richer texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes