Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup store-bought or homemade basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: Cherry tomatoes or toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and mix in the basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of the reserved pasta water until evenly coated.
- Layer the sliced Parmesan chicken over the pesto pasta and garnish with fresh basil, additional Parmesan, and optional cherry tomatoes or toasted pine nuts.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat leftovers, add a splash of olive oil or water and warm gently over low heat.
- This dish pairs well with garlic bread and a crisp green salad.
- Consider adding roasted vegetables or seafood for a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-free option available
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg