Few dishes are as comforting and flavorful as a bowl of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious pesto-infused cream sauce, this recipe brings restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen.

I discovered this gem while experimenting with leftover basil pesto and a few pantry staples. The result? A crowd-pleaser that’s become a regular in our home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe is guaranteed to win hearts and appetites alike. Let’s dive in and see why you’ll fall in love with it!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Get ready to embrace your new favorite pasta dish! Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta combines bold flavors with unbeatable convenience.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

The flavor is out of this world. Fresh basil pesto adds a vibrant, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the richness of the creamy sauce. Pair that with juicy, seasoned chicken, and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven.

It’s also super versatile. Serve it as a one-pot meal, or pair it with a side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete dinner. You can even swap out ingredients to suit your preferences – more on that later!

Finally, this recipe is family-friendly. The mild yet rich flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a hit with picky eaters and gourmet palates alike.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, each bringing a special touch to the table.

Pasta: Short shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully. However, long noodles like fettuccine can also be used for an elegant presentation.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the pesto sauce beautifully.
Basil Pesto: Use high-quality store-bought pesto or, better yet, homemade pesto for the freshest flavor. If you’re making it from scratch, don’t skimp on the fresh basil and Parmesan!
Heavy Cream: The key to the velvety sauce, heavy cream adds richness without being overpowering. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half will work in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for that nutty, salty finish. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it won’t melt as smoothly.
Garlic: A few cloves of fresh garlic provide depth and an aromatic base to the sauce.
Olive Oil and Butter: A combination of both ensures the chicken browns perfectly while adding extra flavor to the sauce.

No special equipment is required for this recipe – just a large skillet for the sauce and a pot for boiling the pasta.

How To Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Crafting this creamy, dreamy pasta is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté 3 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 1 minute. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of basil pesto. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Gently fold in the sliced chicken and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil, additional Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve hot, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!

Total prep and cook time? About 30 minutes, making this recipe perfect for any occasion.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta for maximum flavor.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Freezer: While the cream sauce may separate slightly when frozen, you can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
Meal Prep Tip: Keep the pasta and sauce separate if making ahead, and combine them just before serving for the freshest taste.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added color and nutrients.
Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, turkey, or even leftover rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts.
Go Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free pesto and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
Try Different Cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Whether you stick to the original recipe or mix it up with your own touches, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your home.