This Cilantro Chicken and Pesto Pasta is a bright and tasty meal! The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with yummy pesto and tender pasta, making it a delightful dish for lunch or dinner.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up! I love tossing everything together after a long day—it makes dinner feel special without the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works great in this recipe. If you want a gluten-free option, feel free to use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter dish!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. Alternatively, you could use grilled chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro shines in this dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley works as a good substitute. You could also use spinach for a milder taste.
Pesto Ingredients: If you don’t have pine nuts, walnuts or even sunflower seeds can be a tasty substitute. Cheese lovers, try using goat cheese for a different flavor!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add great flavor. If you can’t find them, fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers will still give you a delicious result.
How Do I Make the Perfect Pesto?
Making the pesto is a key step in this recipe, and it’s easier than you might think! Here’s how to ensure it comes out perfect:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and garlic deliver the best flavor. If you want a stronger basil taste, add some fresh basil leaves.
- Don’t over-process: When blending the pesto, pulse it just enough to break everything down but keep some texture. It will make the dish feel fresher.
- Adjust to taste: Taste the pesto before mixing it with pasta. You might want to add more salt, lemon juice, or even more cheese!
With these tips, you’ll have a vibrant pesto that enhances your chicken and pasta beautifully! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Cilantro Chicken And Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
For The Cilantro Pesto:
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (optional, for added pesto flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for cooking chicken
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Topping:
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably the oil-packed variety), chopped
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish can be made in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes cooking everything. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta but make sure to save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
2. Make the Cilantro Pesto:
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor or blender, combine the cilantro, basil (if using), Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pulse the mixture until everything is well-blended but still has some texture. Taste it and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Combine Everything:
In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta, cilantro pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and cooked chicken. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture appears dry or thick. You want it to be well-coated and delectable!
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your Cilantro Chicken and Pesto Pasta immediately! Top it with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful meal!
This dish highlights the fresh, bright flavor of cilantro in a pesto sauce that beautifully complements tender chicken and savory sun-dried tomatoes. Enjoy your quick and flavorful dinner ready in about 30 minutes!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and linguine are great options, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta for an alternative that suits your dietary needs.
Can I Make the Pesto Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pesto in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To prevent browning, you can drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing it.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water if it seems dry.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Something Else?
Definitely! You can use grilled chicken thighs for a richer flavor, shrimp for a seafood option, or even chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version. All will work well with the pesto!
