5 Tips for Making Chicken Pesto Pasta Like a Pro

Chicken pesto pasta is a delicious, flavorful dish that can be made in a matter of minutes, but to truly elevate it to restaurant quality, a few pro tips can make all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these five tips will help you prepare a dish that is both creamy and savory, with perfectly cooked chicken and vibrant pesto.

• Choose the Right Pesto

The key to a delicious chicken pesto pasta lies in the quality of the pesto. While store-bought pesto is convenient, making your own will give you full control over the flavors. A classic basil pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and extra virgin olive oil provides the freshest taste. If you’re looking to get creative, try variations like sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto. See what works best here depending on your taste preferences and desired flavor profile.

• Perfectly Cook Your Chicken

Chicken is the star of your pasta, so it’s important to cook it perfectly. For juicy, tender chicken, start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you like. You can either pan-sear, grill, or roast your chicken. If you’re pan-searing, cook it over medium-high heat in a little olive oil for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it, which helps retain its juices.

• Cook the Pasta Al Dente

The texture of your pasta is just as important as the chicken. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and unappetizing, so aim for al dente, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. This means your pasta should be firm to the bite but not raw. To achieve this, follow the package instructions, but start checking a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to avoid overcooking. Once your pasta is done, save a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help loosen the pesto sauce and make it cling to the pasta better.

• Mix the Pesto with Pasta and Chicken at the Right Time

Once the pasta is drained, it’s time to bring everything together. Rather than mixing the pesto with the pasta while it’s still hot in the pot, try mixing it in a separate large bowl to keep things more evenly distributed. Toss the pasta with a small amount of reserved pasta water to ensure the pesto sticks. Add the sliced chicken last, and gently mix everything until the chicken, pasta, and pesto are evenly coated. This allows the pesto to evenly coat the pasta without overwhelming the dish.

• Garnish and Add Extra Flavors

While the basics of chicken pesto pasta are delicious on their own, the right garnishes and extra touches can make it even better. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful of pine nuts, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can all enhance the flavors and textures. If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. Fresh basil leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the dish. Experiment with garnishes to find what works best for you.

Conclusion

Making chicken pesto pasta like a pro doesn’t require advanced culinary skills, just a few tips to elevate the flavors and techniques. By choosing high-quality pesto, cooking the chicken and pasta to perfection, and bringing everything together at the right time, you’ll create a delicious dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to garnish and add those extra touches to make your meal truly special. See what works best here and enjoy your homemade chicken pesto pasta!