Gluten-Free Chicken Pesto Pasta

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful Gluten-Free Chicken Pesto Pasta—a vibrant and hearty dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Tender gluten-free penne pasta is tossed in a luscious basil pesto sauce, complemented by juicy cherry tomatoes and perfectly seared chicken breasts seasoned to perfection. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fragrant fresh basil, this recipe brings together classic Italian flavors with a gluten-free twist. Ready in just 35 minutes, this simple yet elegant meal is perfect for busy nights or casual entertaining, offering comfort and freshness in every bite. Ideal for those looking for quick gluten-free pasta recipes packed with protein and garden-fresh ingredients!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces gluten-free penne pasta
• 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.75 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese
• 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the gluten-free penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 4

Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 7

Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 8

Drain the cooked pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.

Step 9

Add the pesto sauce and reserved pasta water to the skillet with the tomatoes, stirring to combine the sauce.

Step 10

Add the drained pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet and toss until everything is well coated in the pesto sauce.

Step 11

Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1106.3 grams (1106.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2576

Total Fat 138.70g	178%
Saturated Fat 32.40g	162%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 384mg	128%
Sodium 4127mg	179%
Total Carbohydrate 172.70g	63%
Dietary Fiber 9.10g	33%
Total Sugars 16.00g
Protein 159.50g	319%

Vitamin D 4IU	18%
Calcium 1202mg	92%
Iron 11mg	59%
Potassium 2316mg	49%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.4%

Protein: 24.8%

Carbs: 26.8%