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Easy Pesto Pasta with Chicken

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A quick and easy weeknight meal featuring tender chicken and pasta coated in a flavorful pesto sauce, with Parmesan cheese and a hint of lemon.

Ingredients

Scale

Main ingredients

  • 1 pound spaghetti (Your favorite pasta shape will work, but spaghetti is a classic for a reason!)
  • 0.5 cup pesto (Store-bought is perfectly fine, but if you have a favorite homemade pesto recipe, go for it!)
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (The real stuff makes a big difference, trust me!)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (For that extra richness in the sauce.)
  • 4 count boneless, skinless chicken breasts (You can also use thighs if you prefer, just adjust cooking time.)
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt (Essential for bringing out all the flavors.)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (A little extra garlic goodness never hurt anyone!)
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika (Adds a subtle warmth and lovely color.)
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground is always best if you have it.)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (For searing that delicious chicken.)
  • 1 whole lemon (A little squeeze of fresh lemon brightens everything up beautifully.)
  • Fresh basil (The perfect finishing touch that looks and smells amazing.)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions, reserving about a cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
  4. Lower skillet heat to medium. Add butter and swirl until melted.
  5. Add drained pasta to the skillet with butter. Toss with pesto, Parmesan cheese, and about half a cup of reserved pasta water until coated and sauce forms. Add more pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
  6. Slice the rested chicken breasts.
  7. Serve pasta topped with sliced chicken, garnished with fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

For an even richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream along with the pasta water. You can also add halved cherry tomatoes, steamed broccoli florets, or sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrients.

Find it online: https://speedydishes.com/easy-pesto-pasta-chicken-recipe/