Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes and Arugula

By:

Thomas

Published:

February 26, 2026

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Creating a delightful Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes, and Arugula is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors. This dish offers a simple yet rewarding experience, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends. Imagine the aroma of grilled chicken paired with the fresh basil and garlic in homemade pesto—it’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water! Cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness, while the peppery arugula gives the dish a nice edge. Not to mention, it all comes together quickly, making it easy to whip up after a long day. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking this deliciously satisfying meal that celebrates the best of what fresh ingredients can do!

Why This Recipe Works

Creating a delightful Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes, and Arugula hinges on the perfect balance of fresh ingredients and careful cooking techniques. The homemade basil pesto serves as the flavor backbone, infusing each bite with herbal notes and a nutty undertone that elevates the dish. Grilling the chicken keeps it juicy while ensuring it complements the vibrant colors and tastes of the cherry tomatoes and peppery arugula.

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes and Arugula

This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that bring comfort and joy to the table. The bright flavors of cherry tomatoes and the depth of homemade pesto married with succulent grilled chicken create an irresistible combination. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish will impress with its simplicity and deliciousness.

Ingredients

Pesto Ingredients:
2½ cups fresh basil leaves
⅓ cup blanched almonds
⅓ cup Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 garlic clove
Pasta and Chicken Ingredients:
2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 lb short pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2-3 cloves garlic, sliced
10 cherry tomatoes, halved (plus extra for serving, optional)
1 cup arugula (rocket)

The Pesto Preparation

Combine Ingredients in Food Processor

In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, blanched almonds, Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese, pressed garlic clove, and lemon juice. This mixture lays the groundwork for that burst of flavor we all love.

Blend Until Smooth

Process until smooth. While the motor runs, slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil through the chute. Blend for an additional 10-20 seconds. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. You want it to sing!

Cook the Pasta

Boil Pasta in Salted Water

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the short pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. It should have a nice bite to it, providing the perfect texture that pairs beautifully with our sauce.

Grill the Chicken

Season and Grill Chicken Breasts

While the pasta cooks, preheat the grill to medium-high. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, based on thickness, until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and keep warm. This step makes sure the chicken stays tender and juicy.

Sauté Garlic, Tomatoes, and Arugula

Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic

In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over low heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté for 10-20 seconds, being careful not to brown the garlic—it should become fragrant without turning dark.

Add Tomatoes and Arugula to Pan

Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes and arugula into the pan, cooking while stirring for 1-2 minutes until just wilted. The heat will bring out the sweetness of the tomatoes while softening the arugula slightly.

Combine Pasta, Pesto, and Chicken

Drain Pasta and Reserve Cooking Water

Drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve 1 cup of the cooking water. This starchy water is key to achieving a silky sauce.

Toss Together with Pesto

Add the pasta and prepared pesto directly into the pan with sautéed garlic, cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Gently toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water bit by bit until you reach the desired saucy consistency. This technique helps everything come together beautifully.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

Slice the grilled chicken and place it over the pesto pasta. A sprinkle of extra grated cheese and a few additional cherry tomatoes on top will add a bright touch and make it restaurant-worthy.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a green salad for a light meal that’ll keep things refreshing.
Serve alongside garlic bread for a heartier dinner experience—because, who can resist garlic bread?

Tips for Success

Use high-quality olive oil for maximum flavor; it makes a noticeable difference.
Make the pesto ahead of time for quicker meal prep on busy days.

Variations

Substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for the chicken for a different protein choice, making it suitable for different dietary preferences.
Add cooked vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a more nutritious twist.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto can be used in a pinch, but homemade offers fresher flavors that truly enhance this dish.

2. How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or chickpeas for extra protein.

3. Can I freeze pesto pasta?
Although cooked pasta can be frozen, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you want to freeze, separate the pesto and pasta, storing them in separate containers.

4. What’s the best pasta to use?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini are ideal for holding onto the pesto. They catch all that delightful sauce!

5. Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta for this pesto dish, so everyone can join in on the deliciousness.

Embrace the vibrant flavors of this Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes, and Arugula. This dish is sure to bring smiles to the dinner table with its fresh ingredients and warm, comforting essence. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, it strikes a balance between ease and gourmet flair. Enjoy the burst of flavors while savoring the process of cooking—it’s a truly rewarding experience!

Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes and Arugula

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes and Arugula

Ingredients