Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
This Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is a flavorful and wholesome dish featuring tender grilled chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes. The combination of smoky chicken, rich pesto, and caramelized tomatoes creates a balanced meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
For the Roasted Tomatoes:
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Garnishes (Optional):
Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Coat the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
1. Boil water with salt and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 4: Make the Pesto
1. In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Slowly add olive oil while blending until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
1. In a large bowl, mix the drained pasta with pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
2. Add grilled chicken slices and roasted tomatoes, tossing gently.
3. Garnish with Parmesan, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~550 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fats: ~25g
Fiber: ~4g
Sodium: ~450mg
Notes & Tips
Pasta Choice: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Protein Variation: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Extra Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes or sauteed mushrooms for extra depth.
Total Time
Prep Time: 1
0 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Enjoy this Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes—a perfect mix of fresh, smoky, and savory flavors!