Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the rich, savory aroma of creamy chicken pesto pasta filling your kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy basil pesto sauce for a meal that’s both indulgent and comforting.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but special enough to feel like a treat. Over the years, it’s become a family favorite—easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive in and learn why this creamy chicken pesto pasta will soon be a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Get ready to meet your new go-to dinner recipe. This creamy chicken pesto pasta is packed with flavor and designed for busy cooks who still want something impressive.

First, it’s incredibly quick and simple to make. In just 30 minutes, you can have a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant. Perfect for those nights when time is short but expectations are high.

It’s also a one-pan wonder. With minimal dishes to clean, you can spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying a cozy evening with your loved ones.

The creamy pesto sauce is the star here. It balances the fresh, herby taste of basil with a luscious texture that coats every piece of pasta and chicken perfectly. The result? A flavor-packed meal that satisfies every craving.

And let’s not forget the versatility. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, trying to use up pantry staples, or looking for a dish to serve at a dinner party, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.

Now that you’re hooked, let’s talk about what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, ensuring the perfect harmony of taste and texture.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully here. Slice them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and juicy, tender bites. Chicken thighs can also be used if you prefer a richer flavor.

Pasta: Short pasta like penne or rigatoni is ideal, as their ridges hold onto the creamy pesto sauce. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite shapes—fusilli or bow-tie pasta also work well.

Pesto: Opt for high-quality basil pesto, either store-bought or homemade. Its bold, fresh flavor is key to the dish’s success. If you make your own, try blending basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil for the ultimate homemade touch.

Cream: Heavy cream creates the luxurious base for the sauce. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the final dish may not be as velvety.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds nuttiness and depth to the sauce. Avoid pre-grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.

Before we move on to the method, ensure you have a large skillet or sauté pan on hand. A wide cooking surface helps the sauce coat the pasta and chicken evenly.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Making this creamy chicken pesto pasta is as simple as it is satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide to perfecting it every time.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining, as this will help bind the sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then sauté the chicken pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper, until they’re golden and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently as it warms, then whisk in the basil pesto and a handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves for garnish.

This entire process should take no more than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this creamy chicken pesto pasta stores beautifully. Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as described above.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it a great canvas for your culinary creativity.

• Swap the chicken for shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist. Simply sauté the shrimp or sear the salmon before adding them to the sauce.
• Add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms to boost the dish’s nutritional value and color.
• If you’re dairy-free, substitute the cream with coconut milk and use a vegan pesto and cheese alternative.
• Try a different type of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or arugula, for a unique flavor profile.
• For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free pasta brand—just be sure to cook it according to package instructions for the best texture.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own. No matter how you customize it, creamy chicken pesto pasta is bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy!

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