Penne with Chicken and Pesto

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Introduction:

Elevate your weeknight dinner with our Penne with Chicken and Pesto recipe, a deliciously simple dish that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a vibrant homemade pesto sauce. This dish combines the rich flavors of basil, garlic, and Parmesan with the hearty satisfaction of pasta and protein. Ideal for busy evenings or special family meals, this recipe is both quick to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

  • For the Pesto:
    • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
    • 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 3 cloves garlic
    • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Penne with Chicken:
    • 12 oz penne pasta
    • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
    • Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pesto:
    • In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
    • With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Penne:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
    • Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir in the pesto sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
  5. Toss Pasta and Serve:
    • Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the pesto sauce and chicken.
    • Garnish with chopped fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips for Penne with Chicken and Pesto:

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Hot: For the best flavor and texture, serve Penne with Chicken and Pesto immediately after preparation while it’s still hot. The warmth of the dish enhances the aroma of the pesto and ensures a satisfying meal.
  2. Garnish Generously: Garnish each serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil. This not only adds flavor but also a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
  3. Pair with a Side: Complement the dish with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or garlic bread works well to round out the meal.
  4. Use a Large Serving Bowl: For a family-style meal, transfer the pasta to a large serving bowl. This makes it easier for everyone to serve themselves and keeps the dish warm longer.
  5. Keep Warm: If you’re serving the dish in stages, keep the pasta warm by covering it with foil and placing it in a low oven (about 200°F/93°C) until ready to serve.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover Penne with Chicken and Pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed well to maintain freshness.
  2. Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, do so gently to avoid drying out the pasta or chicken. Heat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or extra pesto to keep it moist.
  3. Avoid Overcooking When Reheating: Reheat only what you need to avoid repeatedly heating the entire batch. Overheating can make the pasta mushy and the chicken less tender.
  4. Freezing Tips: If you need to freeze the dish, do so within a day or two of preparation. Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To prevent freezer burn, use airtight packaging.
  5. Thaw and Reheat: To thaw frozen pasta, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a little water or extra pesto if needed to restore moisture and flavor.

    Variations for Penne with Chicken and Pesto:

    1. Penne with Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
      • Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the pesto.
    2. Creamy Pesto Penne with Chicken:
      • Mix 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half into the pesto before tossing with the pasta. This creates a creamy, luxurious sauce.
    3. Penne with Chicken and Vegetables:
      • Incorporate sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach into the dish for added nutrition and texture.
    4. Penne with Chicken and Mushrooms:
      • Add 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms to the pasta. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs well with the pesto and adds depth to the dish.
    5. Lemon Pesto Penne with Chicken:
      • Enhance the flavor with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a teaspoon of lemon zest mixed into the pesto. This adds a bright, citrusy note.
    6. Penne with Chicken and Bacon:
      • For a smoky flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon to the pasta. The crispy bacon pieces provide a delicious contrast to the creamy pesto.
    7. Penne with Chicken and Goat Cheese:
      • Stir in 1/2 cup of crumbled goat cheese for a tangy, creamy addition. The goat cheese adds richness and a unique flavor profile.
    8. Spicy Pesto Penne with Chicken:
      • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped jalapeño to the pesto for a spicy kick. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
    9. Penne with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers:
      • Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the pesto.
    10. Penne with Chicken and Artichoke Hearts:
      • Add 1 cup of marinated artichoke hearts, chopped, for a briny and savory addition that pairs beautifully with the pesto sauce.

Conclusion:

Our Penne with Chicken and Pesto is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, herbaceous pesto sauce and tender chicken, this dish offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta recipes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe promises a deliciously memorable meal.

FAQ’s About the Recipe Penne with Chicken and Pesto:

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
    • Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta types such as rotini, farfalle, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
  2. Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?
    • Absolutely. Store-bought pesto works well if you’re short on time. Choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
  3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    • Yes, you can use gluten-free penne or any other gluten-free pasta. Ensure all other ingredients, including the pesto, are gluten-free.
  4. Can I make the pesto in advance?
    • Yes, you can prepare the pesto up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
  5. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
    • To make the dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative and ensure the pesto is made without cheese or use a dairy-free pesto recipe.
  6. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
    • Yes, you can use grilled shrimp, tofu, or even cooked sausage as a substitute for the chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
  7. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
    • Make sure to cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water and stir occasionally. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil if it’s not being mixed with the sauce immediately.
  8. Can I freeze Penne with Chicken and Pesto?
    • Yes, you can freeze the dish. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
  9. How can I make this dish spicier?
    • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the pesto or the chicken for extra heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
  10. What can I serve with Penne with Chicken and Pesto?
    • This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pesto.

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