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

Ingredient	Cost Estimate (USD)	Calories (per serving)
Chicken Breasts	$8-10	250-300
Penne Pasta	$1-2	200-250
Basil, Pine Nuts	$4-5	–
Parmesan Cheese	$2-3	50-70
Olive Oil	$1-2	100-120

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!