Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?

Yes. Store-bought pesto works well for pesto pasta with parmesan chicken. Choose a brand made with basil, olive oil, and parmesan for best flavor, and add a little pasta water so it coats the noodles evenly.

What pasta shapes work best with pesto sauce?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, and farfalle hold onto pesto better due to their ridges. You can use long pasta, but shorter shapes give more even coverage.

Can I make this dish ahead for meal prep?

Yes. Prep the chicken and pasta separately, then mix with pesto right before serving. Add a little olive oil or warm water when reheating to prevent dryness.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

You can replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, tofu, or chickpea pasta for added protein. These options still pair well with basil pesto and parmesan.

Does pesto pasta reheat well?

Yes, as long as you reheat it gently with a splash of warm water, broth, or olive oil to loosen the sauce and prevent separation.

Pesto Pasta with Parmesan Chicken – 7 Bold, Delicious Reasons to Love It

Description

A vibrant and comforting pasta dish made with al dente pasta, golden parmesan-crusted chicken, and fresh basil pesto tossed together for an easy, flavorful weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne pasta
1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced
1 cup basil pesto
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
1 cup baby spinach (optional)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional)

Cook Mode Keep your screen awake while you cook

Instructions

Cook pasta in salted water until al dente and reserve pasta water.
Mix parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then coat chicken strips.
Sear chicken in olive oil until golden and cooked through.
Return pasta to pot and mix with basil pesto, adding pasta water as needed.
Add chicken and any optional vegetables, tossing gently to combine.
Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan before serving.

Notes

Add pasta water gradually to create a silky sauce.
Use fresh parmesan for the best crust and melt.
If reheating, add a splash of warm water or olive oil to loosen the pesto.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: {Dinner
Method: {Stovetop
Cuisine: {Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: {1 bowl
Calories: {620
Sugar: {3
Sodium: {640
Fat: {28
Saturated Fat: {8
Unsaturated Fat: {16
Trans Fat: {0
Carbohydrates: {58
Fiber: {4
Protein: {42
Cholesterol: {112