campanelle with chicken pesto and sun dried tomatoes
Dewey Slovacek
Ingredients
- Campanelle pasta (300g)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (450g)
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (125g), chopped
- Fresh basil leaves (2 cups, roughly chopped)
- Garlic cloves (3, minced)
- Pinenuts or pine nuts (50g, toasted)
- Olive oil (3 tbsp)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper (freshly ground)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Steps
### How to Make Campanelle with Chicken Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Delicious Recipe
#### Introduction
Looking for a flavorful pasta dish that's both comforting and packed with delicious flavors? Campanelle with chicken pesto and sun-dried tomatoes is the perfect choice! This recipe combines tender campanelle, a homemade chicken pesto, and fresh sun-dried tomatoes to create a hearty yet light meal. Follow these detailed steps to make this delightful pasta dish.
#### Ingredients
- 200g (7 oz) campanelle pasta
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken breast (you can use store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 50g (about 2 ounces) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper
#### Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Non-stick skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon
#### Instructions
**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
1. **Boil the Campanelle**: Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. **Season Water**: Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water. This enhances the flavor without overpowering it.
3. **Add Pasta**: Toss in the campanelle, making sure they are well separated. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
**Step 2: Prepare Chicken Pesto**
1. **Mix Ingredients**: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and minced garlic.
2. **Add Chicken and Tomatoes**: Once the garlic is fragrant (about 30 seconds), add the cooked chicken and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully heated through and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
**Step 3: Combine Pasta with Pesto**
1. **Strain Pasta**: Drain the campanelle in a colander, reserving a cup of pasta water.
2. **Return to Pot**: Add the cooked campanelle back into the pot containing the chicken pesto mixture. Toss well to coat each piece of pasta evenly.
**Step 4: Season and Serve**
1. **Season with Cheese and Fresh Herbs**: Stir in chopped basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
2. **Adjust Consistency**: If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
**Step 5: Plate and Enjoy**
1. **Serve Hot**: Divide the campanelle onto individual plates or into a large serving bowl.
2. **Garnish (Optional)**: Sprinkle with additional chopped basil leaves for a garnish if you wish.
3. **Enjoy Immediately**: Campanelle with chicken pesto and sun-dried tomatoes is best served hot.
#### Tips & Variations
- For an extra burst of flavor, add some red pepper flakes to the chicken pesto mixture.
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp or even a vegetable base like spinach for a vegetarian option.
- Feel free to use different types of pasta, such as fusilli or rigatoni, depending on your preference.
By following these steps, you'll have a beautifully flavored and visually appealing campanelle dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!