This is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is secretly super easy.
Tender chicken, fresh zucchini ribbons, and pasta all get tossed in a silky, bright basil pesto sauce.
It’s fresh, colorful, and on the table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight or when you want something light but still satisfying.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep + 20 minutes cooking)
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish hits that perfect balance between comfort and freshness. The pesto gives it a burst of herby flavor, while the zucchini adds a little crunch and sweetness. And honestly? It’s one of the easiest ways to make dinner look like it came from a nice café.
- Fresh, vibrant flavors that wake up your taste buds.
- Ready in half an hour.
- Only one pan for cooking the chicken and zucchini.
- Works for both casual dinners and special occasions.
What You’ll Need
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into thin ribbons (use a vegetable peeler)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size strips
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup fresh basil pesto
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Pro Tips
- Don’t overcook the zucchini—it should be tender but still have a little bite.
- Salt your pasta water well to flavor the noodles from the start.
- Use high-quality pesto for the best flavor, or make your own.
- Toss pasta with pesto off the heat to keep the basil flavor fresh.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Vegetable peeler
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Substitutions and Variations
- Use penne or rotini instead of spaghetti.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled salmon.
- Add cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.
Make Ahead Tips
- Cook chicken ahead of time and refrigerate.
- Make or buy pesto in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Prep the zucchini
While pasta cooks, use a vegetable peeler to slice 2 medium zucchini into thin ribbons. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb chicken strips, season with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Add zucchini ribbons
Add zucchini ribbons to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for 2 minutes, just until slightly softened but still bright green.
Step 5: Toss with pasta and pesto
Turn off the heat. Add cooked spaghetti, ½ cup fresh basil pesto, and ¼ cup reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss until pasta is coated and glossy. Sprinkle in ¼ cup grated parmesan and mix again.
Step 6: Serve
Divide pasta into bowls, garnish with extra parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Macros (per serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 4g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Cooking zucchini briefly keeps its fresh flavor and prevents sogginess. Tossing pasta with pesto off the heat preserves the bright basil aroma. The reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling to every strand for a silky finish.
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking zucchini until mushy.
- Adding pesto while the pan is still over heat (can dull the flavor).
- Forgetting to save pasta water for the sauce.
What to Serve With
- Garlic bread
- A light arugula salad
- Sparkling water with lemon
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes—just choose one with fresh basil as the first ingredient.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely—use gluten-free pasta.
Can I serve it cold?
Yes, it makes a great pasta salad when chilled.
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or enjoy cold.
Conclusion
This Chicken Zucchini Pesto Pasta is fresh, flavorful, and quick enough for any night of the week. Give it a try and share how it turned out—you might just find a new favorite pasta night recipe.