Name: Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Tomatoes and Grilled Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts; 10 oz dry spaghetti; 12 oz grape tomatoes; 7 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup fresh basil; 2 cloves garlic; 2 tbsp Pine nuts; salt and freshly ground black pepper; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese; red pepper flakes

This delightful recipe for Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Tomatoes and Grilled Chicken is a testament to the powers of fresh ingredients. The homemade pesto sauce made from basil and pine nuts adds depth to the dish, the succulent grilled chicken provides plenty of protein, and the burst of flavor from the roasted tomatoes brings a tangy freshness. A well-rounded, hearty meal perfect for any time of the year.

Photos of Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Tomatoes and Grilled Chicken Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe, like chicken, spaghetti, and tomatoes, are readily available in most kitchens. However, pine nuts and fresh basil might not be in your pantry. Pine nuts are a type of seed that gives a rich, creamy texture to the pesto. They are usually found in the baking or snack aisle of your local supermarket. Fresh basil is a key ingredient in pesto sauce, and can usually be found in the fresh herbs section.

Ingredients for Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Tomatoes and Grilled Chicken

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. They are lean, high in protein and absorb flavors well. Spaghetti: Spaghetti serves as the base of the dish. It's a versatile pasta that pairs well with a variety of sauces. Grape tomatoes: These are small, sweet tomatoes that roast quickly and bring a burst of freshness. Olive oil: Used for roasting tomatoes, grilling chicken and making pesto. It adds a smooth, rich flavor. Fresh basil: Essential for the pesto sauce, it gives a fresh, herbal flavor. Garlic: Adds a spicy, robust flavor to the pesto. Pine nuts: These add a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the pesto sauce. Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavors. Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the pesto sauce and also used as topping. Red pepper flakes: Optional, for those who prefer a bit of heat.

One reader, Cyrille Riddick says:

This pesto spaghetti with roasted tomatoes and grilled chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so satisfying. The roasted tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, and the grilled chicken is tender and juicy. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a good pasta dish!

Cyrille Riddick

Techniques Required

How to roast tomatoes: Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for 10-15 minutes until they are soft.

How to make pesto: In a food processor, pulse together basil, garlic, and pine nuts until minced. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil in a slow stream. Then add parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, and process for about 1 minute longer until well blended.

How to grill chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

How to cook spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti in a pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions, then drain, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water.

Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Tomatoes and Grilled Chicken

This pesto spaghetti is tossed with homemade pesto made of basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan. Grilled chicken and cherry tomatoes complete this Italian dish.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbchicken breasts,boneless, skinless, grilled
10ozdry spaghetti
12ozgrape tomatoes,or cherry tomatoes, halved
7tbspolive oil,divided
1cupfresh basil,packed
2clovesgarlic,minced
2tbsppine nuts
salt and freshly ground black pepper
⅓cupParmesan cheese,finely shredded, plus more for serving
red pepper flakes,for serving, optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Prepare pasta in a pot of salted water according to directions listed on the package, reserving ¼ cup of the water before draining.
Toss tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray and spread tomatoes into an even layer on the baking dish. Roast in preheated oven for 10 to15 minutes until soft.
In a food processor, pulse together basil, garlic, and pine nuts until minced. With the processor running, slowly pour in 6 tablespoons of olive oil in a slow stream.
Pulse until finely minced and well blended. Add in parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper (about ¼ teaspoon of each), and process for about 1 minute longer.
Toss drained pasta with pesto and a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Top with chicken and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with Parmesan and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 612.09kcal
Fat: 33.21g
Saturated Fat: 7.00g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.76g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.38g
Carbohydrates: 46.76g
Fiber: 3.05g
Sugar: 3.54g
Protein: 31.22g
Cholesterol: 64.80mg
Sodium: 591.62mg
Calcium: 161.08mg
Potassium: 545.90mg
Iron: 2.22mg
Vitamin A: 83.78µg
Vitamin C: 10.59mg

Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Pesto Spaghetti

When roasting the grape tomatoes, it's important to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures that they roast evenly and prevents them from steaming each other. For an even more intense flavor, you can cut the tomatoes in half before roasting. This allows the juices to caramelize and concentrate, adding a depth of flavor to your pesto spaghetti.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Spaghetti Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the pesto and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Multitask: While the tomatoes are roasting in the oven, start boiling the water and preparing the pesto to maximize efficiency.

Use store-bought: If pressed for time, consider using store-bought pesto to simplify the recipe without compromising flavor.

Batch cooking: Make extra pesto and roasted tomatoes to use in other dishes throughout the week, saving time on future meal preparations.

Invest in tools: Utilize kitchen tools like a food processor to quickly and efficiently prepare the pesto, saving time and effort.

Substitute Ingredients For Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Tomatoes and Grilled Chicken Recipe

spaghetti - Substitute with linguine: Linguine is a good substitute for spaghetti as it has a similar texture and can hold the pesto sauce well.
grape tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are a suitable substitute for grape tomatoes as they are small, sweet, and have a similar texture when roasted.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a good substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
basil - Substitute with arugula: Arugula can be used as a substitute for basil in pesto, providing a peppery and slightly nutty flavor.
pine nuts - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can be used as a substitute for pine nuts in pesto, providing a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese has a similar salty and tangy flavor to parmesan and can be used as a substitute in pesto.
chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a substitute for chicken in this recipe, providing a vegetarian option with a similar protein content.

How to Beautifully Present This Spaghetti Dish

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement. Use fresh basil and pine nuts as garnish to add a pop of color and texture to the dish.
Incorporate height and layers: Build the dish with attention to height and layers. Place the grilled chicken on top of the pesto-coated spaghetti, and then artfully arrange the roasted tomatoes around the plate to create a visually stunning presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the pesto spaghetti, grilled chicken, and roasted tomatoes take center stage.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Ensure that the grilled chicken is sliced evenly and arranged meticulously, and that the pesto-coated spaghetti is neatly twirled to create an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Incorporate a finishing touch: Just before serving, drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil over the dish to add a glossy sheen and enhance the flavors. This final touch will elevate the overall presentation and provide a delightful aroma.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pesto Spaghetti

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, grinding, and pureeing ingredients. It's perfect for making the pesto sauce in this recipe.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is a flat, metal pan used for baking and roasting. It provides an even surface for roasting the tomatoes in the oven.
Pot: A pot is a cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling pasta in this recipe.
Non-stick cooking spray: Non-stick cooking spray is used to prevent food from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy cleanup and preventing the tomatoes from sticking while roasting.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for tossing the tomatoes with olive oil and seasoning before roasting them in the oven.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a versatile kitchen tool used for slicing and dicing the chicken breasts before grilling.
Grill: A grill is used for cooking the chicken breasts, adding a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.
Colander: A colander is used for draining the cooked spaghetti before tossing it with the pesto sauce.
Oven: The oven is used for roasting the tomatoes to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.

How To Store / Freeze Pesto Spaghetti

To store leftover pesto spaghetti in the refrigerator, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
If you have leftover grilled chicken, store it separately from the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the desired portion of pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.
If you want to freeze the pesto spaghetti, it's best to freeze the pesto and pasta separately. Transfer the cooled pesto to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
To freeze the pasta, cook it until al dente, then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss the cooled pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet with a little water or olive oil until warmed through.
It's not recommended to freeze the roasted tomatoes as they may become mushy upon thawing. It's best to make them fresh when you're ready to serve the dish.

How To Reheat Leftovers

To reheat leftover pesto spaghetti with roasted tomatoes and grilled chicken, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out during the reheating process.
Microwave the leftover pesto spaghetti on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it reaches your desired temperature. Stir the pasta halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating and to distribute the pesto sauce evenly.
If you prefer a crispier texture for your grilled chicken, remove it from the pasta and reheat it separately in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet and cook the chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's heated through and slightly crispy.
For a more traditional reheating method, place the leftover pesto spaghetti in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from sticking. Stir the pasta frequently until it's heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
If the pesto sauce seems too thick after reheating, add a small amount of reserved pasta water or olive oil to the dish and stir well to combine. This will help to thin out the sauce and create a silkier texture.
To reheat the roasted tomatoes, place them in a small baking dish and heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until they're warmed through. Alternatively, you can add the tomatoes to the pasta during the last minute of reheating on the stovetop.
Once the pesto spaghetti, grilled chicken, and roasted tomatoes are heated through, transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.
Serve the reheated pesto spaghetti with roasted tomatoes and grilled chicken immediately, while it's still hot. Enjoy your delicious, quick, and easy leftovers!

Random Fact About Pesto Spaghetti

The pesto spaghetti with roasted tomatoes and grilled chicken recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines the flavors of fresh basil, roasted tomatoes, and grilled chicken. It's a great way to incorporate protein, fiber, and essential nutrients into your diet. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. Plus, the homemade pesto adds a burst of vibrant green color and a rich, aromatic taste to the dish. Enjoy this delightful meal as a satisfying and wholesome option for any day of the week.

Is Making Pesto Spaghetti at Home Cost-Effective?

This pesto spaghetti with roasted tomatoes and grilled chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as pasta, chicken, tomatoes, and olive oil, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of fresh basil and parmesan cheese adds some cost, but they are used in moderation. Overall, this dish offers a good balance of cost and flavor. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly option for a satisfying meal.

Is This Spaghetti Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pesto spaghetti with roasted tomatoes and grilled chicken recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The chicken provides lean protein, while the whole wheat spaghetti contributes complex carbohydrates and fiber. The olive oil and pine nuts in the pesto sauce offer healthy monounsaturated fats, and the basil adds a burst of fresh flavor and antioxidants. Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and nutritional value, as cooking tomatoes increases the bioavailability of lycopene, a potent antioxidant.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to boost its nutritional profile:

Opt for whole wheat spaghetti to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
Reduce the amount of olive oil in the pesto sauce to lower the overall calorie and fat content
Include additional vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to increase the vitamin and mineral content
Use a reduced-fat parmesan cheese to lower the saturated fat content without compromising on flavor
Grill the chicken using healthier cooking methods, such as using a grill pan or outdoor grill, to reduce the formation of harmful compounds associated with high-heat cooking

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Spaghetti Dish

The recipe for pesto spaghetti with roasted tomatoes and grilled chicken is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The roasted tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while the grilled chicken provides a savory element. The homemade pesto sauce brings a fresh and aromatic touch to the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a well-balanced and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Tomatoes and Grilled Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Savory garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs, perfect for soaking up the delicious pesto and tomato juices.

Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze, a light and refreshing accompaniment to the pesto spaghetti and grilled chicken.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and tender roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, seasoned with Italian herbs and olive oil for a flavorful and nutritious side dish.

Delicious Alternatives to Pesto Spaghetti

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Use a variety of mushrooms such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster for a rich and earthy flavor. Stir in some parmesan cheese and a splash of white wine for an extra depth of flavor.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a sweet and savory glaze. Grill or bake until the salmon is flaky and tender, then serve with a side of steamed vegetables.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine chia seeds, coconut milk, and diced mango in a jar and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and create a creamy pudding-like texture, perfect for a healthy and refreshing dessert.

Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions for This Spaghetti Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers. Alternate cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves on toothpicks, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a simple yet sophisticated appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Tomatoes and Grilled Chicken Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The grilled chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the pesto made with fresh basil and pine nuts adds a burst of vibrant, herbaceous taste. The roasted tomatoes contribute a sweet and savory element, complementing the dish perfectly. With the use of high-quality olive oil and parmesan cheese, this recipe promises an authentic Italian experience. Trust in the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients to create a memorable dining experience.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to make this pesto spaghetti with roasted tomatoes and grilled chicken recipe?

The total time to make this recipe is approximately 30-40 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Linguine, fettuccine, or penne would work well with this dish.

Can I make the pesto in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the pesto ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I substitute the pine nuts with a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews for a different flavor profile.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also check by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure there is no pinkness and the juices run clear.