Penne Pasta with Chicken and Walnut Pesto
A delightful dish that balances wholesome ingredients with indulgent flavors, ideal for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli)
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and slice into strips.
- Sauté the mixed vegetables in the same skillet for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Make the pesto by blending parsley, walnuts, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cooked penne, sliced chicken, sautéed vegetables, and walnut pesto in the skillet. Serve warm.
Notes
Cook pasta al dente and avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy.