Imagine a dish that dances on your taste buds with vibrant bursts of flavor, where the fresh, herbaceous zing of pesto meets the rich, chewy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all crowned with tender, succulent chicken. Welcome to the world of Zesty Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Chicken Flair-a culinary symphony that transforms everyday ingredients into an extraordinary meal. This recipe isn’t just about feeding hunger; it’s about igniting your passion for bold, harmonious flavors that bring a touch of sunshine and sophistication to your dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or simply craving a quick yet impressive dish, this pasta promises a delightful journey from plate to palate. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a zestful star in the kitchen repertoire.

Zesty Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Chicken Flair

Zesty pesto pasta with sun-dried tomatoes & chicken flair blends vibrant Mediterranean flavors into every bite, creating a dish that’s bursting with color and bold taste. This recipe transforms humble pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy meal, enhanced by the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the succulent, herb-infused chicken that adds protein with flair. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and savory that never fails to impress, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings alike.

Prep and Cook Time

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield

Serves 4 generous portions

Difficulty Level

Medium – Suitable for cooks comfortable with multitasking and timing ingredient finishes precisely for creaminess and protein perfection.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta or your favorite short pasta
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, thinly sliced
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Optional: red pepper flakes for an extra kick

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. Add olive oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a zesty twist, add the lemon juice here as well.
4. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken slices with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté in 1 tablespoon olive oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
5. Combine and cream: Lower the heat. In the same skillet, stir the pesto and heavy cream together, warming gently-don’t boil-to form a silky sauce. If it’s too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is achieved.
6. Toss pasta: Add the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat every piece in the creamy, zesty pesto sauce.
7. Plate and garnish: Serve the pasta topped with the sautéed chicken slices. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and optional red pepper flakes for heat.

Tips for Success

• Sun-dried tomatoes: Choose oil-packed tomatoes for richer flavor and softer texture. If using dry-packed, rehydrate in warm water first.
• Chicken flair: Marinate the chicken briefly with lemon juice and smoked paprika for tender, flavorful protein.
• Achieving creaminess: Stir cream in slowly and gently warm the sauce to prevent it from curdling. Use pasta water to loosen sauce textures naturally.
• Pesto variations: Swap pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for a nutty twist.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare pesto in advance and store in an airtight container, drizzling a bit of olive oil on top to preserve color.

Serving Suggestions

For a visually stunning presentation, plate the pasta in shallow bowls, drape the chicken on top, and scatter fresh basil leaves and freshly shaved Parmesan across the dish. Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water infused with lemon and mint for a refreshing contrast. Accompany the meal with a light arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to enhance the zesty notes.

Discover more vibrant pasta recipes to enhance your kitchen repertoire on our Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe Collection. For in-depth culinary science on pasta textures and sauces, visit The Culinary Institute of America.

Q&A

Q&A: Zesty Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Chicken Flair

Q1: What makes this Zesty Pesto Pasta dish stand out from your typical pasta recipes?
A1: It’s all about the vibrant burst of fresh basil pesto combined with the rich, tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. The addition of tender, lightly spiced chicken adds a delightful “flair,” turning simple pasta into a zesty, gourmet experience that dances on your taste buds.

Q2: Can I use store-bought pesto, or should I make my own?
A2: While a quality store-bought pesto can save time, making your own allows control over freshness and intensity. Homemade pesto, with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan, gives the dish a bright, herbaceous punch that’s hard to match from a jar.

Q3: How do sun-dried tomatoes contribute to the overall flavor profile?
A3: Sun-dried tomatoes infuse the pasta with a chewy texture and a concentrated, tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pesto. They’re like little bursts of umami sunshine, adding depth and complexity.

Q4: What’s the best way to prepare the chicken for this recipe?
A4: Marinate the chicken briefly with a touch of lemon juice, garlic, and a sprinkle of chili flakes to compliment the zesty theme. Sear it in a hot pan to lock in the juices and get a golden crust, then slice it thinly so each bite has a perfect balance of savory flair.

Q5: Is this dish suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
A5: Absolutely! With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this Zesty Pesto Pasta in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy, but is surprisingly fast and fuss-free.

Q6: Any tips for a vegetarian version without losing the “chicken flair”?
A6: Swap the chicken for grilled halloumi or marinated tofu cubes. Their savory, slightly crisp texture will maintain that protein punch and hold up well against the pesto and sun-dried tomatoes.

Q7: What wine or beverage pairings would complement this meal?
A7: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Italian Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, enhancing the pesto’s herbaceous notes and balancing the tomato’s acidity. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade with a hint of basil is refreshing and thematic.

Q8: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for meal prep?
A8: You can prep components like the pesto and chicken in advance, but it’s best to toss everything together just before serving. This keeps the pasta perfectly al dente and ensures the vibrant flavors stay fresh and bright.

This Q&A brings you into the heart of making a dish that’s as lively as it is comforting – the perfect blend of zest, sun-soaked sweetness, and savory flair!

In Summary

As the last bite of this zesty pesto pasta lingers on your palate, you’ll appreciate how the vibrant burst of sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken flair elevate a classic dish to new heights. It’s a symphony of flavors that proves simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between convenience and culinary creativity. So, next time you’re in the mood for pasta with a punch, let this vibrant medley be your go-to-because great food is all about bold flavors and joyful moments at the table.