Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken

Instructions

1. Start by making the pesto sauce. Combine the basil leaves and pine nuts in the food processor and pulse a few times. Add garlic cloves, then pulse a few more times.
2. Slowly pour the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on, occasionally stopping to scrape down the excess from the sides with a spatula.
3. Next, add the grated cheese, salt, and black pepper and pulse again until completeley blended. Then, set aside.
4. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
5. Meanwhile, preheat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Saute garlic until tender, then add chicken. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Allow chicken to cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove from heat.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta with chicken and pesto sauce. Toss and coat completely. Then serve!