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Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes and Arugula

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This Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken is a vibrant celebration of fresh ingredients. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for any gathering, featuring delicious grilled chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and peppery arugula.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2½ cups fresh basil leaves
  • â…“ cup blanched almonds
  • â…“ cup Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 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
  • 23 cloves garlic, sliced
  • 10 cherry tomatoes, halved (plus extra for serving, optional)
  • 1 cup arugula (rocket)

Instructions

  • Combine basil, almonds, cheese, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor; blend until smooth.
  • Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve 1 cup of cooking water.
  • Season and grill chicken until fully cooked; keep warm.
  • Sauté garlic in olive oil, add tomatoes and arugula until just wilted.
  • Combine pasta, pesto, and reserved cooking water; toss to coat.
  • Serve pasta with grilled chicken on top and sprinkle with extra cheese and tomatoes.

Last Step:

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Notes

Using high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor.
Make the pesto ahead to save time on busy days.

  • Author: Thomas
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling, Sautéing, Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg