Chicken and Vegetable Pasta with Pesto

This Chicken and Vegetable Pasta with Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken and fresh vegetables tossed in a fragrant homemade pesto. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it brings together the goodness of protein and veggies in a delightful, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• Pasta (fusilli or penne) - 150 grams
• Chicken breast - 200 grams, diced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Zucchini - 1 medium, diced
• Bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams, halved
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh basil - 1 cup, packed
• Pine nuts - 1/4 cup
• Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons, grated
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Water - 1 liter

Steps

1. Bring 1 liter of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and the pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
3. Add the minced garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until blended, then slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil while processing until smooth.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with chicken and vegetables. Pour the pesto sauce over the top and toss everything together until well coated.
6. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and gently mix. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 600
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from chicken, supporting muscle health and repair.
• Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables and basil, promoting overall health.

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