Description
A vibrant, herby pasta dish combining golden chicken, nutty pine nuts, and chunky pesto for a quick yet indulgent meal. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, this Italian-inspired recipe balances crisp texture and bold flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
1.5 lb chicken, sliced or cubed (skinless breasts or thighs)
8–12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or orecchiette)
1/2 to 3/4 cup pesto (fresh or jarred)
1/2 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup cream (optional, heavy cream or halal alternative)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Optional: grated parmesan, sea salt for enhanced flavor
Instructions
Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet; cook chicken over medium-high heat until golden and nearly cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
Add remaining 1 tbsp oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in pesto, cream (if using), and 1/2 cup pasta water from boiling (or stock for extra flavor). Simmer until sauce thickens.
Add pasta and pine nuts to the pan; toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning and serve.
Notes
Use 2 tbsp pesto with extra water for a looser sauce or skip cream for a tangier texture.
Substitute walnuts or almonds for pine nuts if preferred.
Leftovers pair well with roasted vegetables or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: DINNER
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg