Thai Pesto Chicken Pasta

Make the Pesto

1. 01

   Add Thai basil, scallions, cilantro, garlic, peanuts, fish sauce, lime juice, and optional lemongrass to a food processor.
2. 02

   Process until a thick, spoonable pesto forms, scraping down the sides as needed.
   

Sear the Chicken and Build the Sauce

1. 03

   Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the neutral oil.
2. 04

   Season the chicken lightly with salt and sear until cooked through and lightly browned.
3. 05

   Reduce heat to medium and add the pesto directly to the chicken, stirring to coat evenly.
   

Cook and Reduce the Pasta

1. 06

   Add the dry pasta and 1 1/2 cups of water to the pan.
2. 07

   Bring to a steady simmer and cook, turning the pasta frequently as it softens.
3. 08

   Allow the liquid to reduce into a thick sauce, adding more water as needed until the pasta is fully cooked.
   

Finish and Serve

1. 09

   Remove the pan from heat once the sauce clings tightly to the noodles.
2. 10

   Toss briefly to ensure even coating and serve immediately.