CREAMY PESTO CHICKEN PENNE
Creamy pesto chicken penne is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines the nutty richness of whole wheat pasta with the bold flavours of pesto and Parmesan. The grilled chicken adds a savoury depth, while the creamy pesto sauce coats each bite perfectly, creating a smooth and indulgent texture. Whole wheat penne provides a higher fibre content, making this meal a wholesome and nutritious option. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favourite. The fresh basil and garlic notes in the pesto complement the juicy, tender chicken, creating a healthy, balanced dish that is both hearty and full of flavour. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a light salad, this creamy pesto chicken penne is a go-to recipe for an effortless yet satisfying meal.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Italian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Boil, Sauté
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Weeknight Dinner, Family Meal, Comfort Food
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
High Protein, High Fibre, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Pasta
INGREDIENTS
The list of ingredients for creamy pesto chicken penne is given below:
- 50g whole wheat penne, cooked
- 80g grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1 tbsp pesto sauce
- 10g grated parmesan
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Fibre: 5g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Sugar: 2g
PREPARATION
- Cook The Penne: Boil water in a medium-sized pot, add the whole wheat penne, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare The Chicken: If not pre-grilled, season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then grill over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Slice into thin strips.
- Heat The Pesto: In a pan over low heat, add the pesto sauce and let it warm for about 30 seconds.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked penne and sliced grilled chicken to the pan, tossing well to coat everything evenly in the pesto sauce.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated parmesan over the pasta, stirring gently until slightly melted and evenly distributed.
- Serve Immediately: Plate the pasta and enjoy warm, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh basil leaves.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS FOR CREAMY PESTO CHICKEN PENNE
- Use Fresh Pesto: Homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto enhances the flavour significantly.
- Don’t Overcook The Pasta: Al dente pasta absorbs the sauce better, ensuring a perfect texture.
- For A Creamier Sauce: Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yoghurt or heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Balance The Flavours: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and enhances the pesto’s freshness.
- Grill Chicken Properly: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
VARIATIONS
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta instead of whole wheat penne.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chilli oil for heat.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or ricotta cheese for a richer, more indulgent texture.
- Extra Protein: Stir in a handful of toasted pine nuts or cooked shrimp for added protein.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as pesto-based sauces tend to lose their vibrant flavour when frozen.
- Meal Prep: Cook the pasta and grill the chicken in advance, then combine with pesto and parmesan before serving.