Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta

Spring is the perfect season to enjoy fresh and flavorful dishes that bring a sense of renewal to the dinner table. One delightful dish that marries the heartiness of pasta with the freshness of seasonal vegetables is Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta. Not only is this dish vibrant and tasty, but it’s also simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 pound asparagus, woody ends trimmed
• Olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 12 ounces rotini pasta, gluten-free if needed
• 1/3 cup pesto
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 3 tablespoons shredded Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
• Fresh chopped basil and additional Pecorino Romano for garnish

Directions:

1. Prep the Pasta: Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and transfer it to a large serving bowl.
2. Grill the Chicken and Asparagus: While the pasta is cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Lay the asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper; toss to coat evenly. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°-165°F. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly. Grill the asparagus on the grates horizontally to avoid falling through, flipping once, until charred and tender, about 2 minutes per side. Chop the grilled asparagus into 2-inch pieces.
3. Combine and Season: To the pasta, add the sliced chicken, chopped asparagus, pesto, and lemon juice. Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and give everything a good toss to combine thoroughly. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Garnish and Serve: Finish the dish by garnishing with toasted pine nuts and freshly chopped basil. This pasta can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 550 kcal

This Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Pesto Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of spring’s bounty. The juicy grilled chicken, vibrant asparagus, and the rich, nutty flavor of pesto blend perfectly to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and color. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight staple or something special to serve at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to delight. Enjoy crafting this delicious, wholesome meal that brings the freshness of spring right to your table!