Ingredients
Scale
Creating this mouthwatering dish is a breeze, thanks to its simple and wholesome ingredients. Hereโs what youโll need:
- 2 cups pastaย (spiral or penne)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oilย for drizzling
- Grated Parmesan cheeseย (optional)
Instructions
Preparing Pesto Chicken Pasta with Walnuts is straightforward, with these easy-to-follow steps:
- Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked to your desired level of tenderness, drain the pasta and set it aside. - Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the shredded chicken and basil pesto. Ensure that the pesto coats the pasta and chicken evenly for a uniform taste. - Add Cherry Tomatoes and Walnuts
Gently stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped walnuts. The tomatoes add a burst of freshness, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. - Season the Dish
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Add a drizzle of olive oil for additional flavor and a glossy finish. - Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta warm, topping it with grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Pasta Cooking: Al dente pasta works best for this recipe as it holds its shape and absorbs the pesto sauce well.
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice, but grilled or baked chicken can also be used for added flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g