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Delicious Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta Meal Prep

Discover how to create a flavorful basil pesto chicken pasta that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a hearty blend of chicken and pasta with the aromatic goodness of basil pesto.

Key Takeaway

Learn the art of making a delicious basil pesto chicken pasta, combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a homemade basil pesto sauce for a delightful meal prep option.

Ingredients and Preparation

Chicken and Seasoning

  • Chicken Breasts: 750 grams (1.6 pounds), seasoned with:
  • Onion Powder: 2 teaspoons (5 grams)
  • Garlic Powder: 2 teaspoons (5 grams)
  • Sea Salt Flakes: To taste
  • Black Pepper: 20 cracks, to taste
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (40 milliliters)

Instructions:

  1. Season chicken and sear in olive oil, then bake and grill until cooked through.

Basil Pesto

  • Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
  • Parmesan Cheese: 30 grams (1.06 ounces), freshly grated
  • Pine Nuts: 30 grams (1.06 ounces), toasted
  • Basil: 2 bunches (approximately 60 grams), leaves picked
  • Lemon Juice: Juice of half a lemon
  • Sea Salt Flakes: To taste
  • Black Pepper: 20 cracks, to taste
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 125 milliliters (1/2 cup)

Instructions:

  1. Blend garlic, cheese, pine nuts, lemon juice, basil leaves and stems, salt, pepper, and olive oil until smooth.

Pasta

  • Penne Pasta: 750 grams (1.6 pounds), cooked al dente

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve some pasta water.

Cooking Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken: Season and cook chicken until golden and cooked through.
  2. Make Basil Pesto: Blend garlic, cheese, pine nuts, basil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and olive oil until smooth.
  3. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.

Assembly and Meal Prep

  1. Combine Ingredients: Mix cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and basil pesto until well coated.
  2. Adjust Consistency: Add reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
  3. Portion and Store: Divide into meal prep containers for easy storage and future meals.

Cost and Calories Breakdown

IngredientCost Estimate (USD)Calories (per serving)
Chicken Breasts$8-10250-300
Penne Pasta$1-2200-250
Basil, Pine Nuts$4-5–
Parmesan Cheese$2-350-70
Olive Oil$1-2100-120

Note: Costs and calories are approximate and may vary based on location and specific brands.

Reheating Instructions

  • Microwave: Reheat until hot throughout.
  • Enjoy: Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Create a delightful basil pesto chicken pasta meal prep that’s rich in flavors and perfect for those who enjoy a comforting pasta dish. This recipe ensures each bite is filled with the aromatic blend of basil, nutty pine nuts, and tender chicken, making it a favorite for any meal prep session!

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