Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like a steaming bowl of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta to bring comfort and flavor to your dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, herbaceous pesto cream sauce that tastes like it came straight from a cozy Italian trattoria.

The first time I made this recipe, I was looking for a way to jazz up plain pasta night, and it’s been a household favorite ever since. Not only is it irresistibly delicious, but it's also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Get ready to add this recipe to your regular rotation. With its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is bound to become a favorite for everyone at the table.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. You only need about 30 minutes to whip up this dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time but craving something hearty and satisfying.

This recipe is also wonderfully versatile. You can easily adapt it to whatever you have on hand – swap out the protein, toss in some veggies, or experiment with different types of pasta.

Another big win? Minimal cleanup. The entire dish can be made using just a pot for the pasta and a skillet for the chicken and sauce. Who doesn’t love a recipe that’s delicious and saves you time on dishes?

Finally, the flavor is unmatched. The combination of creamy sauce, nutty parmesan, and fresh pesto creates a symphony of tastes that’ll leave you wanting seconds – maybe even thirds.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but every ingredient has an important role in building its unforgettable flavor.

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs tend to stay juicier, but breasts work beautifully too if cooked properly. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Pesto: Go for a high-quality basil pesto for the best results. Store-bought works perfectly, but if you have homemade pesto on hand, that’ll elevate the dish even further.
• Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine are excellent choices because they hold the creamy sauce well. Opt for a sturdy pasta shape to capture every drop of the delicious sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This creates the luxuriously creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less rich.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for that nutty, salty kick. Avoid pre-grated varieties if possible, as they don’t melt as smoothly.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth and aroma to the sauce, balancing the richness with a slight bite.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a pot for boiling the pasta. A fine-mesh sieve or colander will come in handy for draining, too.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Making this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a breeze! Follow these steps to create a dish your family will rave about.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, prepare your chicken. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add a splash of olive oil.

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to let it burn.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the pesto and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Drain your cooked pasta and add it to the skillet along with the cooked chicken. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Let it cook for an additional minute to meld the flavors.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. From start to finish, this dish takes just about 30 minutes!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers – lucky you! Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta stores beautifully for future meals.

• Refrigerator: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While the cream sauce may slightly separate upon thawing, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat gently over low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to help the sauce come back together.

When reheating, warm the pasta on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently. Avoid using high heat, as it may cause the sauce to curdle.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for a nutrient boost.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and add extra veggies to balance the richness.

Experiment and see which variation becomes your new favorite!

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a dish that’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party. With its irresistible combination of creamy, herby, and savory flavors, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Enjoy!

Print