Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken and Cherry Tomatoes
Fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor, this Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken and Cherry Tomatoes is the perfect quick and delicious meal! Tender grilled chicken is paired with al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a rich, herby pesto sauce for a light yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- For the Grilled Chicken
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt u0026 black pepper, to taste
- For the Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) penne or fusilli pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken : Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Step 2: Grill the Chicken : Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Step 3: Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Step 4: Toss with Pesto : Return drained pasta to the pot (off the heat). Add pesto and toss well to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
- Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Chicken : Gently stir in halved cherry tomatoes.Top with sliced grilled chicken.Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and pine nuts (if using).