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Loaded herb grilled chicken with creamy pesto pasta and roasted baby potatoes served in white bowl with fresh herbs

Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken with Creamy Pesto Pasta and Roasted Potatoes

A satisfying family dinner featuring juicy herb-marinated grilled chicken, creamy pesto-coated penne pasta, and crispy roasted baby potatoes all served together in one flavorful bowl.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 3 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 700

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts 6 to 8 oz each, about ¾ inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for chicken marinade
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for marinade
  • 1.5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice from half a lemon
  • salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 14 oz baby potatoes halved, about 2 cups
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for potatoes
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for potatoes
  • 7 oz penne pasta about 2 cups dry
  • 0.33 cup heavy cream plus 1 tablespoon
  • 3 tablespoons pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 oz Parmesan cheese freshly grated, about ⅓ cup
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil or parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Rimmed baking sheet
  • Medium pot for pasta
  • Mixing bowls
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Chef's knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and turn to coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread in single layer on rimmed baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fork-tender. Sprinkle with fresh parsley when done.
  3. Bring medium pot of salted water to rolling boil. Add penne and cook until al dente, 9 to 11 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining. Drain pasta in colander.
  4. Return pot to medium heat. Add heavy cream and warm for 1 minute. Stir in pesto sauce and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. If too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time. Toss in cooked penne and fresh herbs until coated. Adjust seasoning.
  5. Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (375-400°F). Lightly oil grates. Remove chicken from marinade and place on hot grill. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side without moving, until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to cutting board and rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain.
  6. Divide creamy pesto pasta among shallow bowls or plates. Arrange roasted potatoes alongside pasta, then top with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with extra fresh herbs, lemon wedge, or Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead. Chicken thighs can substitute for breasts (cook 6-8 min per side). For dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free pesto. Can cook chicken in oven at 425°F for 18-22 minutes if no grill available.