Craving a quick and delicious meal? This Whole Wheat Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes is a fantastic option for Healthy Chicken Pasta Recipes. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, offering a flavorful and wholesome dinner everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Any short-cut whole wheat pasta works best. You can use regular pasta if preferred.
- Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative.
- Pesto: Store-bought or homemade basil pesto. Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or diced larger tomatoes also work well.
- Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast offers a dairy-free option.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup prepared basil pesto
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500
- Tools Needed: Large pot, large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Tomatoes
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the same skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and burst. This brings out their natural sweetness.
4. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the tomatoes. Add the drained whole wheat pasta and pesto. Toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Finish with Cheese
Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. If the Healthy Chicken Pasta Recipes mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula in the last minute of cooking for extra greens.
- Introduce some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch.
- Include a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the tomatoes.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Whole Wheat Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still delicious.
- What kind of whole wheat pasta should I use? Penne, rotini, or fusilli work great with the pesto and chicken.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prepping? Yes, it makes excellent healthy meal prep for lunches throughout the week.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian? Omit the chicken and add chickpeas or white beans for protein.
- What if I don’t have fresh cherry tomatoes? Canned diced tomatoes, drained, can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best for flavor.
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.