Chicken Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes

Chicken Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant, flavorful pasta dish that perfectly captures the spirit of Italian cuisine—fresh, colorful, and full of life. Juicy grilled chicken, tender penne pasta, and sweet bursts of cherry tomatoes come together in a creamy, aromatic pesto sauce that tastes like summer in every bite.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: high-quality ingredients and a few easy steps yield an impressive, restaurant-quality meal. The basil pesto provides a nutty, garlicky, and cheesy backdrop that complements the tender chicken and juicy tomatoes beautifully.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes that magical balance between comforting and refreshing. The homemade (or store-bought) pesto infuses every bite with bright basil, Parmesan, and olive oil goodness, while the cherry tomatoes add bursts of sweetness and color.

The texture combination is unbeatable—the penne soaks up the sauce, the chicken adds hearty protein, and the tomatoes keep everything juicy and lively.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Bright, fresh flavors – A perfect balance of savory pesto and sweet tomatoes.
• High in protein – The chicken makes it filling and wholesome.
• Quick & easy – Ready in 30 minutes from start to finish.
• One-pan wonder – Minimal cleanup with maximum taste.
• Versatile – Works equally well for a casual meal or elegant dinner.

Preparation & Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 540 kcal

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• Salt (for boiling water)

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup basil pesto (homemade or good-quality store-bought)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creamier texture)

For Garnish:

• Extra Parmesan
• Fresh basil leaves

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook penne pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain.
2. Season and cook chicken until golden and cooked through, then slice.
3. Sauté cherry tomatoes until just softened.
4. Mix pesto sauce with tomatoes and pasta, adding chicken and Parmesan.
5. Toss together and serve warm, topped with basil and cheese.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add penne and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
4. Transfer to a plate and slice into thin strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in basil pesto and, if desired, a splash of cream for richness.
4. Add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if too thick.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked penne and sliced chicken to the skillet.
2. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the pesto sauce.
3. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and toss again.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful mix of creamy, herby, and juicy flavors.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Chicken Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes immediately while warm.
It pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• A simple arugula or Caesar salad
• A chilled glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a romantic date night meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor; store-bought works, but homemade tastes brighter.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be al dente to hold the sauce well.
• Reserve pasta water—it’s the secret to a silky sauce!
• Add veggies – zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach go great here.
• For extra flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
• Shrimp Pesto Penne: Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp.
• Vegetarian Pesto Pasta: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables.
• Pesto Penne Bake: Add mozzarella on top and bake for a cheesy casserole version.
• Spicy Pesto Pasta: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months (though the texture of the pesto may change slightly).
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce.

Avoid microwaving directly for long periods—heat in short bursts or on the stovetop for best results.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Cheese grater

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

Q2: Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni work just as well as penne.

Q3: Is it okay to use store-bought pesto?
Yes, just choose a high-quality one made with real basil and olive oil.

Q4: How can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan substitute.

Q5: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything and refrigerate; just reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes is the perfect blend of freshness, comfort, and color. The herby pesto, succulent chicken, and sweet tomatoes combine to create a dish that’s both elegant and effortless. Every bite offers the warmth of home-cooked Italian food with the sophistication of a bistro meal.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this pasta delivers a crowd-pleasing experience every single time. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it’s truly a timeless classic.