Gluten-Free Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Craving a comforting yet flavorful pasta dish without gluten? Look no further than this Trader Joe’s Inspired Gluten-Free Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe! With tender chicken, aromatic pesto, and gluten-free pasta, enhanced with ingredients from Trader Joe’s, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Is gluten-free pasta necessary for this recipe? Yes, using gluten-free pasta ensures that the dish is suitable for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. However, you can use regular pasta if you don’t have any dietary restrictions.
2. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken thighs? Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken thighs with shrimp, tofu, or your favorite protein alternative.
3. How long will leftovers last? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
4. Can I freeze this dish? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, simply omit the chicken and use a plant-based protein alternative. Additionally, ensure that the pesto and any other ingredients used are vegan-friendly.
Ingredients
- - 1 pound of chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- - 1 jar of Trader Joe’s gluten-free pesto
- - 3 cloves of garlic minced
- - 1/2 onion diced
- - 1 bell pepper sliced
- - Onion powder to taste
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - Crush pepper flakes optional
- - 1 jalapeño diced (optional for extra kick)
- - Olive oil or butterfor cooking
- - Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- - Lemon juice for garnish (optional) but recommend
- - Cayenne pepper for garnish (optional)
- - Coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt for creaminess (optional)
- - 12 oz of gluten-free pasta of your choice e.g., brown rice pasta, quinoa pasta, or chickpea pasta
Instructions
- Start by cooking the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic, diced onion, sliced bell pepper, and diced jalapeño (if using) to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Season the chicken thighs with onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Add them to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, add the cooked gluten-free pasta and jar of Trader Joe’s gluten-free pesto. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce.
- Add the sliced chicken back to the skillet and gently mix it with the pasta until everything is heated through.
- Serve the Gluten-Free Chicken Pesto Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
- For an added kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before serving. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can also add a dollop of coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt.
- Enjoy your Gluten-Free Chicken Pesto Pasta!
