How do I add a twist to classic pesto pasta?

Spice up your pesto pasta game with our unique twist! Try adding grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an explosion of flavors.

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, How do I add a twist to classic pesto pasta. Items include: Grilled chicken Sun-dried tomatoes Fresh basil leaves Parmesan cheese Pine nuts Garlic Salt Pepper Olive oil Pasta Chili flakes

Grilled chicken 2 chicken breasts
Sun-dried tomatoes 1/2 cup
Fresh basil leaves 2 cups
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated
Pine nuts 1/4 cup
Garlic 2 cloves
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Olive oil 1/2 cup
Pasta 8 ounces
Chili flakes to taste

Take note
Be careful while handling hot grill and sharp knives.

1

Grill the chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

2

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work great) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3

Prepare the pesto

In a food processor or blender, combine 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of pine nuts, 2 cloves of garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly pour in 1/2 cup of olive oil until the pesto is well combined.

4

Add the twist

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for a minute to release their flavors. Next, add the sliced grilled chicken and stir to combine. Pour in the prepared pesto and stir well to coat everything. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to evenly distribute the sauce and ingredients.

5

Serve and enjoy

Transfer the pesto pasta to serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle with a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick. Grab a fork, dig in, and savor the explosion of flavors in every bite!