Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress? Dive into the delightful world of Italian cuisine with our "Pesto with Penne and Roasted Chicken" recipe! This vibrant dish combines tender penne pasta, succulent roasted chicken, and a luscious basil pesto that will have your taste buds dancing. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a meal that serves four, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Get ready to tantalize your palate and discover the secrets to creating a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cherry tomatoes for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat, preparing to cook the penne pasta.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, ensure your cooked chicken is shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces. If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then grill or roast until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water to help sauce consistency if needed.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and drizzle with olive oil, gently tossing to prevent sticking.
- Add the basil pesto to the pasta and stir thoroughly, ensuring each pasta piece is well-coated.
- Fold in the shredded chicken, mixing gently to distribute evenly throughout the pasta.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix to incorporate.
- Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes for color and freshness.
- Serve immediately while warm, optionally with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: To achieve that ideal al dente texture, keep a close eye on your penne pasta and taste it a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. This ensures it’s cooked just right!
- Use Quality Pesto: For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality basil pesto. You can either make your own or purchase it from a reputable brand. Freshness makes all the difference!
- Customize Your Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, this recipe is a great way to use it up! Just shred it and mix it in for a quick and easy meal.
- Save Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining! Adding a splash can help adjust the consistency of your pesto sauce, making it creamier and more cohesive.
- Garnish for Color: Elevate your dish’s presentation by garnishing with halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. It adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall appeal.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your dish right after preparation. This ensures the pasta remains warm and the flavors are at their peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 455kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
