Description
This Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken with Creamy Pesto Pasta is comfort with freshness—herb-marinated chicken, roasted potatoes, and creamy pesto pasta. A full plate that feels like home, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley, basil), finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or rosemary
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: extra fresh herbs, lemon wedges, toasted pine nuts
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix herbs, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken and marinate for 15–60 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once.
3. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
4. Grill chicken on medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Return pasta to pot over low heat. Stir in pesto, cream, butter, Parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water until smooth and creamy.
6. Plate pasta with sliced chicken and roasted potatoes. Garnish with herbs, lemon wedges, or toasted pine nuts if desired.
Notes
This dish brings together fresh herbs and creamy pasta for a balanced, comforting meal.
You can substitute chicken with halloumi or use zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a lighter option.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 135mg