Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto Chicken and Walnuts, a creamy, nutty, and satisfying dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Tender slices of pan-seared chicken breast are paired with perfectly al dente bow tie pasta, all coated in a luscious basil pesto sauce. Crunchy walnuts add an irresistible texture, while parmesan cheese and fresh basil brighten every bite. This recipe is a one-pan wonder that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors, making it perfect for busy evenings or casual entertaining. Serve this hearty pesto pasta as a standalone meal or alongside a crisp green salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. Place them in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Lower the heat to medium-low, then stir in the pesto sauce and cooked pasta. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with pesto.
Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and gently combine it with the pasta.
Sprinkle in the walnuts and grated parmesan cheese. Toss lightly to mix.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Calories |
3055 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 166.2 g | 213% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.4 g | 142% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 27.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 247 mg | 82% | |
| Sodium | 5678 mg | 247% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 271.4 g | 99% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.0 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.0 g | ||
| Protein | 132.2 g | 264% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 636 mg | 49% | |
| Iron | 18.2 mg | 101% | |
| Potassium | 1223 mg | 26% | |
*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.