If you are craving a dish that combines rich, comforting creaminess with the fresh, herbaceous punch of basil pesto, this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Every bite offers tender chicken mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all swathed in a dreamy pesto cream sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve when friends drop by, making it a reliable favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of just a few essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish truly special.
- Penne or your favorite pasta (12 ounces): Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well; penne acts like a little vessel for the creamy pesto sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps cook the chicken beautifully without sticking.
- Boneless skinless chicken breast (1 pound, bite-sized pieces): The protein star of the dish, tender and mild, soaking up all those vibrant flavors.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the ingredients’ natural tastes and balances the creaminess.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle warmth and depth to the chicken and sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with its signature aromatic punch, making the whole dish pop.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The luscious base that turns pesto into a silky, indulgent sauce you’ll want to savor.
- Basil pesto (1/2 cup): Packed with fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan, this is the vibrant heart of the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a nutty, salty finish that enriches the sauce and pasta.
- Cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup, halved, optional): Bring a pop of juicy sweetness and color contrast to brighten every forkful.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Fresh leaves turn the dish into a fragrant, eye-catching masterpiece.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—the ideal tender-but-firm texture to hold up against the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you focus on the hearty chicken and sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with salt and black pepper to build base flavors. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it achieves a beautiful golden brown and is cooked through—this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. That caramelization layer locks in flavor and texture.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Create the Sauce
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just one minute until it becomes fragrant without burning. Next, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto, mixing everything until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken just slightly and the flavors to meld into a luscious, velvety coating.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together carefully to coat the pasta and chicken evenly in that irresistible creamy pesto sauce. If you are adding cherry tomatoes, stir them in now, letting them warm through for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, adding a refreshing burst with every bite.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish by scattering fresh basil leaves on top for a fragrant touch and vibrant green color. Serve this warm, rich Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe immediately to enjoy the sauce at its silky best.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese sprinkle over the finished dish make it look as delicious as it tastes, enhancing its aroma and offering a subtle visual contrast to the creamy sauce. Adding a dash of cracked black pepper or a few pine nuts can also bring delightful texture and flavor boosts.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides to balance the richness. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy garlic bread brings complementary textures and flavors that round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a basil leaf perched on top for a restaurant-worthy look. For a casual dinner, pile it high on a large serving platter and let everyone help themselves, making the meal feel warm and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, though the texture will be best if reheated gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Freezing
This dish tends to be best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as freezing creamy sauces can sometimes cause separation and change texture. However, if you do freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw thoroughly in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir gently until warmed through to preserve the creamy texture and prevent the chicken from drying out. Avoid microwaving on high heat for best results.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, you can use fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti depending on your preference. The key is choosing a pasta shape that lets the sauce cling well.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes. The creamy pesto sauce is flavorful enough to carry the dish on its own without meat.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream are great options that keep the dish creamy and delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and pesto sauce in advance and combine with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat. However, the final assembly and tossing with pasta is best done just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
Does the recipe work with store-bought pesto?
Definitely! High-quality store-bought pesto is a convenient and tasty shortcut that saves time. Look for fresh basil pesto with good flavor to keep this dish vibrant and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a well-made pasta, and this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe hits all the right notes with its luscious sauce, tender chicken, and fresh basil charm. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this dish promises to become a cherished go-to in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciously creamy, herby goodness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
