Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken with Creamy Pesto Pasta
A fresh, gourmet dinner that brings the flavors of Italy to your table in just 20 minutes.
Elevate Your Dinner Game
Finding a balance between a healthy eating plan and a decadent meal is easy with this Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken with Creamy Pesto Pasta. The “loaded” aspect comes from a deep herb marinade that ensures the chicken remains juicy even after grilling.
While mass-produced pasta dishes often lack freshness, our version uses a velvety cream and pesto blend that feels like restaurant-style food. Pair it with a side of toasted bread or our yummy biscuits for a complete meal.
Ingredients Checklist
- 2 large Chicken Breasts (halved)
- Herb Rub: Basil, Oregano, Garlic, Onion Powder
- 12 oz Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne)
- 1/2 cup Basil Pesto
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (or Half & Half)
- 1/4 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Salt & Cracked Pepper
How to Make It
- The Loaded Chicken: Coat your chicken breasts in olive oil and the herb rub. Grill over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until charred and cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.
- The Perfect Pasta: Boil your pasta in a large pot of salted water. Remember to save a splash of “liquid gold” (pasta water) before draining! Check our time-saving kitchen hacks for perfect pasta every time.
- The Creamy Pesto Sauce: In the same pot, combine the heavy cream and pesto. Bring to a light simmer on low heat. Stir in the parmesan until smooth and glossy.
- The Combination: Toss the drained pasta into the creamy pesto sauce. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water.
- Plating: Divide the pasta into bowls. Top with generous slices of the herb grilled chicken. Garnish with more parmesan and fresh basil.
Storage & Healthy Swaps
Healthy Twist: For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk. This is one of our favorite budget-friendly recipe swaps.
Meal Prep: Store the chicken and pasta in separate containers to keep the chicken from getting soggy. It’s a fantastic lunch box idea for work or school.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use jarred pesto? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s a high-quality brand with basil as the first ingredient for the best flavor.
What pasta works best? Fettuccine is a classic for “creamy” sauces, but Penne or Rotini work great because the “loaded” sauce gets trapped in the ridges!
