Ah, let me tell you about one of my absolutely favorite go-to recipes: Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta! This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl, and it’s one that I’ve come back to time and again. I remember the first time I made it for friends; we sat outside with our plates, laughter floating in the air, and my friend exclaimed, “This tastes like summer!” That’s precisely the magic of this dish. It has such a fresh, vibrant flavor thanks to the basil pesto, and I think the addition of grilled asparagus is just genius.
Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also super easy to whip up, which means I can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the company of my loved ones. So, if you’re looking for a dish that screams ‘delicious’ while also having the power to impress, then look no further! Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this culinary delight.
What’s in Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta?
Rotini Pasta: The spirals of rotini are perfect for capturing that wonderfully creamy pesto. I personally love how they twist and turn to hold onto every drop of flavor.
Chicken Breast: Juicy, tender chicken breast is the star of the show here! Boneless and skinless helps keep it lean and easy to grill to perfection.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives a delightful crunch and a pop of color. Just the word “asparagus” makes me think of springtime!
Basil Pesto: This is where the magic really happens! A cup of basil pesto gives the dish that irresistible, aromatic flavor. I always opt for a quality store-bought pesto, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade is even better!
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds a nutty richness that ties everything together beautifully.
Toasted Pine Nuts: Crunchy pine nuts introduce a beautiful texture and a subtle nuttiness. Toasting them really elevates their flavor!
Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil for seasoning while grilling keeps everything moist and flavorful.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the best in all the ingredients.
Fresh Basil Leaves: These make for a lovely garnish, adding a final touch of freshness and aroma to the dish.
Is Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta Good for You?
Oh, let’s chat about the health benefits! This dish is packed with protein from the chicken, and the asparagus is a great source of fiber and essential vitamins like K and C.
Asparagus: Asparagus is not just a pretty face; it’s also a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber, which aids digestion.
Pesto: While pesto can be calorie-dense due to the oil and nuts, it’s also filled with healthy fats that help keep you satiated. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Rotini Pasta: Opting for whole wheat or gluten-free options can give this dish an extra health boost while still keeping it delicious!
The combination of these ingredients leaves you feeling satisfied without any heavy, sluggish feeling afterward, making it a splendid choice for a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients List
– 8 ounces rotini pasta
– 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup basil pesto
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
This lovely recipe serves approximately 4.
How to Make Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta?
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Grill the Chicken**: While the pasta is cooking, heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and juices run clear. Once cooked, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. **Grill the Asparagus**: On the same grill, add the asparagus spears, seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
4. **Combine Ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced grilled chicken, grilled asparagus, and basil pesto. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. **Serve**: Transfer the pasta mixture to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
6. **Enjoy**: Serve immediately while warm, or refrigerate for a chilled pasta salad option.
Delicious Tips and Tricks for Your Pasta Night
– For an extra punch of flavor, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the finished dish. It brightens up the overall taste!
– Feel free to swap out grilled chicken for shrimp or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version. Yum!
– If you’re prepping this dish for a gathering, you can make the pasta and pesto ahead of time, and then just grill the chicken and asparagus before serving.
I hope you’re as excited to make this Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta as I am! It’s a dish that brings people together and creates beautiful memories at the table. Please try it out and let me know how it turns out; I can’t wait to hear about your culinary adventures!
