When it comes to weeknight dinners that are hearty, flavorful, and balanced, this Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken with Creamy Pesto Pasta and Roasted Potatoes truly delivers. Imagine juicy, herb-seasoned chicken breasts grilled to perfection, paired with silky pesto pasta tossed in cream, and golden roasted potatoes that are crispy on the outside yet fluffy on the inside. This dish has all the elements of comfort food, while still looking elegant enough for entertaining guests.

Not only is it satisfying, but it also uses simple ingredients that most home kitchens already have on hand. With minimal preparation and straightforward cooking techniques, you can bring this restaurant-quality plate to the table in under an hour.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced flavors: The herby grilled chicken brings savory notes, the creamy pesto pasta adds richness and freshness, while roasted potatoes provide a crispy, hearty contrast.

• Customizable: Swap sides, change up the pasta, or add extra vegetables depending on what you have at home.

• Nutrient-rich: Chicken provides lean protein, pasta gives you energy-boosting carbs, and potatoes plus herbs round out the meal with vitamins and minerals.

• Weeknight-friendly: Ready in about 45 minutes with very little active cooking time.

This dish checks all the boxes whether you’re cooking for family, treating yourself after a long day, or making something special for guests.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 2

• Calories per serving: ~700 kcal

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs (Italian seasoning or a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works well)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pesto Pasta

• 150 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work equally well)

• 2 tablespoons pesto sauce

• 2 tablespoons cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Roasted Potatoes

• 2 medium potatoes, cubed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Toss the cubed potatoes in olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should turn golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and return it to the pot. Stir in the pesto sauce and cream until the pasta is evenly coated in a luscious, green, creamy sauce. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

While the potatoes are roasting, season the chicken breasts with dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Plate each chicken breast alongside a generous portion of creamy pesto pasta and roasted potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for extra flair.

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Tips and Variations

• Add vegetables: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be roasted with the potatoes for more color and nutrition.

• Change up the pasta: If pesto isn’t your preference, buttered noodles or a simple garlic and olive oil pasta make a great substitute.

• Herb flexibility: Use fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil if available for a more vibrant flavor.

• Protein alternatives: Swap chicken for salmon, turkey cutlets, or even a vegetarian option like grilled portobello mushrooms.

• Make it cheesy: Stir a little grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano into the pesto pasta for extra richness.

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Why This Combination Works

This dish is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures:

• The herb-marinated chicken provides a juicy, savory centerpiece.

• The pesto pasta delivers creamy, garlicky, and slightly nutty notes thanks to basil and Parmesan in the pesto.

• The roasted potatoes add hearty crunch, making the meal more satisfying.

It’s essentially a complete meal with protein, carbs, and fats balanced in harmony.

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Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of this dish comes in at around 700 kcal, making it filling without being overly heavy. Here’s what you get nutritionally:

• Protein: Chicken breasts provide lean, high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and satiety.

• Healthy fats: Olive oil and pesto contribute unsaturated fats that support heart health.

• Carbohydrates: Pasta and potatoes provide complex carbs for sustained energy.

• Micronutrients: Rosemary, basil, and parsley are rich in antioxidants, while potatoes provide potassium, vitamin C, and fiber.

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Perfect Pairings

This meal already feels complete, but here are some ideas to elevate it even further:

• Side Salad: A fresh arugula and cherry tomato salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

• Bread: Garlic bread or focaccia makes a perfect side to mop up extra pesto sauce.

• Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the herbal notes of pesto.

• Dessert: Finish with something refreshing, like a lemon sorbet or a light panna cotta.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare parts of this meal in advance?
Yes! You can roast the potatoes ahead of time and reheat them in the oven. Pasta can also be cooked and stored in the fridge—just toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely. Store-bought pesto saves time, but if you have fresh basil, homemade pesto can elevate the dish even more.

3. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and double-check your pesto for any hidden gluten ingredients.

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Final Thoughts

Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken with Creamy Pesto Pasta and Roasted Potatoes is proof that a gourmet-style meal doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and less than an hour in the kitchen, you can create a dish that is comforting, flavorful, and versatile.

This recipe shines because of its flexibility—you can adapt it to suit your pantry or preferences while keeping the core flavors intact. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or serving friends on the weekend, this dish will impress with its vibrant presentation and satisfying taste.

So next time you’re craving a meal that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you.