Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the vibrant freshness of a pesto-inspired pasta salad! This Grilled Chicken with Pesto Inspired Pasta Salad is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched terraces of Italy. With just 35 minutes of your time, you can whip up a delightful feast that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Ensure grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking, then set aside to cool.
- Place chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- While chicken is grilling, halve the cherry tomatoes and prepare the mozzarella balls.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Then slice into thin strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. Gently toss to mix.
- Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top of the pasta salad and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately at room temperature, or chill for a refreshing cold pasta salad.
Tips
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper when seasoning the chicken. This step enhances the flavor, ensuring each bite is deliciously savory.
- Perfect Grill Marks: For those beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken around too much while it cooks. Let it sear for the recommended time before flipping.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture. It should have a slight bite to it, which will complement the creaminess of the pesto.
- Chill for a Refreshing Twist: If you prefer a cold pasta salad, let the dish chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This will meld the flavors beautifully.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition.
- Use Fresh Pesto: For the best flavor, opt for fresh pesto if possible. You can either make your own or find high-quality store-bought options.
- Meat Thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve with a Side: Pair this dish with a light salad or crusty bread to complete your Italian-inspired meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 100mg
