Pesto Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 oz chicken breast (bite-size pieces)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup pesto sauce
• 6 oz dry pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 2 qt water (for pasta)
• 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)(optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks (or right after), heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then cook until browned and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes.

3. 3

   Reduce heat to low. Add pesto to the skillet and stir to coat the chicken. Add the drained pasta and toss, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen and evenly coat.

4. 4

   Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, optionally topping with Parmesan.