Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly for this recipe and is a great time-saver. For best flavor, choose a high-quality brand made with fresh basil and real Parmesan.

Is this recipe better served hot or cold?

It works beautifully both ways. Serve it chilled as a refreshing pasta salad in warmer months or warm it up for a comforting winter dinner.

What pasta shapes work best with pesto?

Farfalle (bowtie) and penne are ideal because their shape and texture help the pesto cling well. Rotini or fusilli are also great alternatives.

Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken

Name: Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 16 oz farfalle pasta (or penne); 1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade cut; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Description

This Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken is the ultimate quick and healthy weeknight meal. Featuring grilled chicken, tender pasta, and a bright, herby pesto sauce, it’s perfect served hot or cold and comes together in just 30 minutes. An easy sheet pan dinner with bold flavors and simple steps.

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
16 oz farfalle pasta (or penne)
1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade cut
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Season and Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked with no pink inside. You can also sauté them in a skillet with olive oil if grilling isn’t an option. Allow the chicken to rest, then slice into thin strips.
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than the package recommends. This keeps it firm, especially if serving the dish cold. Drain and rinse with cool water for a salad version.
Prevent Sticking: Toss the cooked pasta in a large bowl with a tablespoon of milk or a light drizzle of olive oil. This step helps prevent the pasta from sticking together as it cools.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, grilled chicken slices, and pesto until everything is evenly coated. Chill in the refrigerator if you prefer it cold.
Add Fresh Ingredients: Right before serving, mix in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables or white beans. To reheat leftovers, place in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. You can prep the chicken and pasta in advance for a quicker assembly. Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling / Boiling
Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Calories: 531
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 80mg