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Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe

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A quick and flavorful pesto pasta topped with juicy, seasoned chicken and finished with fresh lemon and basil. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 4 (6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lemon (juiced)
  • Fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Return drained pasta to the same pot over low heat. Add pesto, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt and pepper. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce becomes glossy.
  3. Preheat a grill pan to medium-high heat and add olive oil. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
  4. Top pasta with sliced chicken. Drizzle with lemon juice, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker alternative.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/pesto-pasta-with-chicken-recipe/