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To make this dish, you need a few key items: - Chicken Breasts - Pasta Options: I suggest fettuccine or penne. - Pesto Sauce Types: Use fresh basil pesto or store-bought. These ingredients create a nice balance of flavors. The chicken adds protein, while the pasta gives you a hearty base. Pesto brings that fresh, herby taste that truly shines. You can also enhance your dish with these optional ingredients: - Vegetables: Think cherry tomatoes or spinach for color. - Seasonings: Add extra garlic or crushed red pepper for a kick. - Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor. Feel free to mix and match these options. They can make your meal even more exciting. I love adding fresh veggies to boost nutrition and taste. Each addition makes your plate unique and yummy. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Grilling Instructions You want to start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is key for a perfect finish. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil. This helps add flavor and keeps the meat moist. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning brings out the chicken's natural taste. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. Check that the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). This ensures it's fully cooked. After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time keeps the juices in. Seasoning Tips Feel free to mix up the spices. Try adding a dash of smoked paprika or lemon zest for a twist. Both flavors work well with chicken. Always taste your seasoning before grilling. Adjusting it can make a big difference in flavor. Water Boiling Techniques Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. This helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Once boiling, add the pasta and stir it gently. This keeps it from sticking together. Timing for Al Dente Check the package for cooking time. Most pasta takes about 8-12 minutes. Al dente means the pasta should be firm when bitten. Start tasting a minute or two before the time is up. Drain the pasta but save 1/2 cup of the cooking water. This starchy water can help mix later. Mixing Pasta with Pesto In a large mixing bowl, toss the hot pasta with the fresh basil pesto. The heat from the pasta will help the pesto coat it smoothly. If it feels dry, add some of the reserved pasta water. Do this slowly until you reach the desired creaminess. Adding Vegetables and Cheese Gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese. The tomatoes add a fresh burst of flavor. The cheese gives a rich finish to the dish. Finally, slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra cheese if you like. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite! For the full recipe, check out the recipe section above. Temperature Control To grill chicken well, aim for medium-high heat. This helps cook the chicken evenly. Preheating your grill is key. It ensures a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check if it reaches 165°F (75°C). This keeps the chicken safe and tasty. Checking Doneness After grilling, let the chicken rest for five minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute. To check for doneness, cut into the thickest part. If the juices run clear, it's ready. If not, put it back on the grill for a few more minutes. Additional Herbs You can boost the flavor of your dish with more herbs. Try adding parsley, thyme, or even a dash of oregano. Fresh herbs make a big difference. They add brightness and depth to each bite. Alternative Sauces While pesto is the star, you can mix it up. Consider using a sun-dried tomato sauce or a creamy Alfredo. Both options add a new twist to your meal. They can change the whole vibe of the dish. Plate Presentation Presentation matters! Serve your pasta in a large bowl or on individual plates. Top it with sliced chicken, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This makes the dish look inviting and delicious. Complementary Side Dishes Pair your pasta with a light salad or garlic bread. A green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread adds a crunchy touch. Both sides are easy to prepare, making your meal complete. For the full recipe, check out the details above! {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in your grilled chicken pesto pasta. Shrimp adds a light flavor. Just grill it like the chicken. You can also try tofu for a vegetarian option. It soaks up the pesto well. If you want to keep using chicken, try different cuts. Thighs can add more flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quick meal. Just shred it and mix it with the pasta. Not everyone can eat regular pasta. You can use gluten-free pasta if needed. There are many options like rice or chickpea pasta. They taste great with pesto too. Whole wheat pasta is another good choice. It adds fiber and a nutty taste. Veggie pasta made from spinach or zucchini is fun and colorful. It can make your dish more nutritious. Pesto can change the whole dish. Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist. It gives a rich, tangy flavor. You can make it at home or buy it. Spinach and kale pesto is a healthy option too. It packs in nutrients and has a vibrant color. Blend fresh spinach or kale with nuts and olive oil for a tasty version. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. To keep your grilled chicken pesto pasta fresh, start with refrigeration. Place any leftovers in a tightly sealed container. Make sure to cool the pasta to room temperature before sealing. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Try to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. When reheating, keep it simple. The microwave works well for quick meals. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat it in short bursts. Stir every minute to ensure even heating. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until hot throughout. In the fridge, grilled chicken pesto pasta lasts about three days. If you notice any off smells or changes in texture, it's best to toss it. Signs of spoilage include mold, a sour smell, or any change in color. Always trust your senses. When in doubt, throw it out. To make grilled chicken pesto pasta easier, focus on meal prep. You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Store them in the fridge. This way, you will save time on busy days. - Cook Extra Chicken: Grill more chicken than you need. Use leftovers in wraps or salads. - Prep Pesto in Advance: If you make homemade pesto, store it in the fridge. It stays fresh for about a week. - Use Quick-Cooking Pasta: Choose pasta that cooks in under 10 minutes. This saves time during busy weeknights. Yes, you can use store-bought pesto. It is a great time-saver. However, homemade pesto often tastes fresher. Homemade pesto has bright flavors from fresh herbs. Store-bought versions can vary in quality and taste. - Store-Bought Pros: Easy to find, quick to use, and often less expensive. - Homemade Pros: You control the ingredients. You can adjust the flavor to your liking. It can be a fun cooking project. Pair grilled chicken pesto pasta with great side dishes. A fresh salad works well. Try a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread is another tasty option. It complements the pasta nicely. - Ideal Side Dishes: - Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes - Roasted vegetables - Garlic bread - Beverage Suggestions: - A chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio - Sparkling water with lemon - Iced tea for a refreshing drink For more tips, check out the Full Recipe for grilled chicken pesto pasta. Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta combines simple ingredients for a tasty meal. Use chicken, pasta, and your favorite pesto to create a quick dish. Don't forget optional add-ins like veggies or cheese for extra flavor. Follow the steps for prepping and cooking to achieve perfect results. In the end, this dish is versatile. You can change proteins and sauces easily. With smart storage and reheating tips, leftovers can be enjoyed later. Now, you have all the tools to make a delightful meal any time!

Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta

Make weeknight dinners exciting with this delicious Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe! Combining tender grilled chicken, fresh basil pesto, and cherry tomatoes over pasta, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to prep and perfect for the whole family. Discover step-by-step instructions to create this mouth-watering meal in just 30 minutes. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your dinner game tonight!
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Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne works well)

1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

    Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

      In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

        In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the fresh basil pesto. If the mixture seems dry, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired creaminess is achieved.

          Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta.

            Slice the grilled chicken into strips and arrange them on top of the pesto pasta.

              Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan, if desired.

                Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4