Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Pesto Chicken Pasta with Walnuts


  • Author: Sarah

Ingredients

Scale

Creating this mouthwatering dish is a breeze, thanks to its simple and wholesome ingredients. Hereโ€™s what youโ€™ll 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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