Pesto Chicken And Pasta
A flavorful combination of tender chicken, mushrooms, and pesto tossed with pasta, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner with vibrant basil notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
- Place vegetable oil in a hot wok, tilting to coat the surface.
- Add chicken and cook for about 4 minutes or until no longer pink, stirring well.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms and drained tomato wedges.
- Cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.
- Combine chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth, then add to the chicken mixture.
- Cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Add 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce, stirring well.
- Cook fettuccine according to package directions.
- Combine hot fettuccine with remaining pesto sauce, tossing gently.
- Serve chicken mixture over pasta and garnish with fresh basil sprig if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic before cooking. If you're out of chicken broth, vegetable broth works well. You can also substitute fettuccine with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the dish's flavor. To make it lighter, use less pesto or opt for a homemade version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pesto Chicken and Pasta with a side of Italian Green Beans With Onion And Basil for a fresh, vibrant meal. A crisp green salad topped with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the pesto. For a heartier meal, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and pasta mixture in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can result in overcooked pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pesto Chicken And Pasta contains roughly 562 calories, with 33g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (134% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (81% of the Daily Value), and protein (66% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto can elevate the dish with fresh flavors. Just blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust the ingredients according to your taste preference. Using homemade pesto can also be a great way to utilize leftover basil from the garden.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you're looking for alternatives to chicken, consider using shrimp or tofu for a different protein. Both options will work well with the pesto and pasta. For a vegetarian version, you can add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to maintain a hearty texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the chicken mixture while cooking. You can also serve it with a side of spicy marinara sauce. For an even bolder flavor, try pairing it with Spicy Chicken And Pasta Casserole for a spicy twist on your meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).