5 Secrets to Super Simple Meals Subscribe
Don't miss!

Stove TopChickenPastaSalads

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

30 minutes Cook
Scroll to recipe
0
(0)

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is the perfect harmony of savor and health. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe brings a restaurant-quality meal straight to your dining table. With ingredients that not only tantalize your taste buds but also pack a nutritional punch, this dish is both a crowd-pleaser and a dietitian’s delight. Let’s explore what makes this recipe so irresistible and healthful.

Why People Love Cooking This Recipe?

The allure of this recipe lies in its multifaceted charm. The creamy pesto sauce with tender chicken and pasta offers a delectable mix of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s customizable – you can add more veggies, switch the pasta type, or experiment with spices to make it uniquely yours. The dish is not overly complex, which makes it perfect for both weeknight family dinners and special occasions. Moreover, the process of preparing this recipe is as satisfying as enjoying the final dish, nurturing our inherent love for creation and artistry in culinary form.

Why This Recipe Is Healthy?

This recipe provides a well-balanced meal. The chicken offers a high-quality source of protein essential for muscle growth and repair. The pasta, preferably whole grain, is a source of complex carbohydrates providing sustained energy. Olive oil and pine nuts contribute healthy fats that promote heart health and aid absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Basil not only adds flavor but also supplies a good amount of Vitamin K which plays a crucial role in blood clotting. Lastly, adding more vegetables would increase the fiber content and provide a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Who Can Eat This Recipe?

This dish is suitable for the general population, including children, adults, and seniors. However, it may not be suitable for those with allergies to the ingredients used, or those following a specific diet like vegan, dairy-free, or low-carb diets.

In conclusion, this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of taste and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome and delicious meal.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Share
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe Details

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe Details

amelia-taylor
prep time
15 minutes
cooking time
30 minutes
servings
4
total time
45 minutes

Equipment

  • a pot for boiling pasta

  • a grill or pan for the chicken

  • food processor for the pesto

  • a pan for making the sauce

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 200 grams of your preferred pasta

  • 2 cups of fresh basil leaves

  • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/4 cup of pine nuts

  • 2 cloves of garlic

  • 1/2 cup of olive oil

  • 1/2 cup of heavy cream

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: Cherry tomatoes, lettuce, or other salad additions.

Instructions

1

Start by cooking your pasta as per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-sear until thoroughly cooked. Let it rest, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

3

For the pesto, combine basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor. While blending, slowly add the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth.

4

In a pan over medium heat, combine the pesto and heavy cream. Stir until you get a smooth, creamy sauce.

5

Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and creamy pesto sauce. Mix until everything is well-coated. You can add in your optional salad additions at this point.

6

Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

When cooking the pasta, remember to season the water with a good amount of salt; this is your only chance to flavor the pasta itself. To get the best flavor from your pesto, use fresh basil and high-quality olive oil. Toast your pine nuts before using them. This will enhance their flavor and add an extra crunch. When cooking your chicken, don’t forget to rest it before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken moist and tender. Lastly, feel free to make your own adjustments. If you love garlic, add more. If you're not a fan of pine nuts, substitute them with walnuts or almonds.
Amelia Taylor
290 posts

About author
A creator of healthy recipes, dedicated to nourishing your body with delicious and nutritious meals.
Articles
You may also like
Low CarbGluten FreeMealSide DishesStove Top

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice

1 Mins read
0 (0) Today, I’m delighted to share with you one of the most beloved recipes that hits the trifecta of easy, tasty,…
Grain FreeChickenGrillLow CarbSalads

Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Salad

15 minutes Cook
0 (0) In the vast culinary world where flavors meet health, our Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Salad recipe stands as a shining example….
Fish & SeafoodStove Top

Shrimp Taco

5 minutes Cook
0 (0) Are you looking for a culinary adventure that’s both satisfying and health-conscious? Let’s embark on a journey to create an…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *