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Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe

This creamy pesto pasta with grilled chicken is bursting with fresh basil flavor, tender bites of chicken, and a rich, silky sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.
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Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 550kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 –4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose chicken seasoning see Note #2
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing and tossing
  • 10 oz. gluten-free penne pasta see Note #1
  • ½ cup prepared or homemade basil pesto
  • ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
  • cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil julienned
  • Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Begin by cooking the gluten-free penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain thoroughly and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
  • While the pasta is cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high. Lightly brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season generously with salt, black pepper, and the all-purpose chicken seasoning blend.
  • Grill the seasoned chicken for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked with no pink in the center and juices running clear. Remove from the grill and allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
  • Drain the excess oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. If desired, chop them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier distribution throughout the dish.
  • Return the empty pasta pot to the stove over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for a couple of minutes until their aroma is released and they begin to soften.
  • Pour in the heavy whipping cream and stir in the basil pesto. Mix until the sauce is well combined and warmed through.
  • Add the cooked pasta and sliced grilled chicken to the sauce. Gently toss everything together until well coated.
  • Plate the pasta and serve warm. Finish with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, if desired, for a nutty, savory finish.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcal
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