Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

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When I first whipped up this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, I wasn’t prepared for the sheer comfort it would bring to the table. It was a spontaneous weeknight creation born from a craving for something hearty yet fresh. I tossed together some juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and a jar of pesto I had in the fridge—and the result was an instant family favorite. Now, it’s a recipe I come back to time and again.

There’s something about the combination of rich creaminess and vibrant pesto that hits the sweet spot between indulgent and wholesome. I love how quickly this dish comes together with just a few pantry staples, making it perfect for those evenings when you need dinner fast but still crave something homemade and delicious. It’s a creamy, dreamy pasta that always satisfies.

If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a dish that tastes like it took hours, even if it only took twenty minutes. The layers of flavor in this pasta make it taste like something out of a restaurant kitchen, but it’s totally achievable in your own. And if you enjoy recipes like Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta, this one will absolutely be your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

This pasta brings together tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and a luscious cream sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it with veggies or different proteins. Best of all, it requires minimal prep and clean-up. Whether you’re feeding a family or just indulging solo, this dish brings comfort and flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s fancy enough to serve guests but easy enough for a Tuesday night. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

Pasta: I prefer penne or rotini for this dish because the ridges really hold onto the creamy pesto sauce. Use what you have, but make sure it’s a pasta shape that catches sauce well.

Chicken breast: Lean and quick-cooking, it brings the protein and a mild flavor that soaks up all that basil pesto deliciousness. You can use thighs if you prefer something richer.

Basil pesto: This is the soul of the dish. Go for a good-quality jarred pesto or homemade if you’re up for it. The herby, garlicky depth of flavor ties everything together.

Heavy cream: Adds that luscious, smooth body to the sauce. It balances the boldness of the pesto with richness.

Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and absolutely essential. It melts into the sauce for extra depth and a creamy texture.

Garlic: A couple of cloves finely minced enhances the flavor of both the chicken and the sauce. Don’t skip it.

Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic. Use a good extra virgin olive oil to complement the pesto.

Salt and pepper: Just the basics, but critical for seasoning every layer of the dish to perfection.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and no longer pink inside. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Stir in the Pesto

Add the basil pesto to the cream sauce and stir well. Toss in the cooked chicken and any juices, and let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of chicken breast, chicken thighs make a great substitute with their juicy, rich flavor. You could even go meatless and use sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for a vegetarian option. Instead of heavy cream, try half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream if you need it lighter. No Parmesan? A touch of Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can fill in.

As for the pesto, while traditional basil pesto is a classic, sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto gives it an exciting twist. You can switch up the pasta too: fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta will work perfectly.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is delicious on its own, but a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements its richness beautifully. Garlic bread or warm baguette slices are great for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For a drink pairing, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the herby pesto flavors. Want a non-alcoholic option? Sparkling water with lemon or a basil-infused lemonade is refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce before microwaving or gently warming it on the stovetop.

Avoid freezing this dish as the cream sauce can separate when thawed. If you must freeze it, do so without the cream and add it fresh when reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the pasta and chicken in advance and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to serve, quickly whip up the sauce and combine everything.

Is Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days and reheats nicely with a splash of milk to freshen up the sauce.

Can I use store-bought pesto for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Definitely. Just go for a high-quality one with a vibrant color and strong basil aroma. Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine.

What vegetables can I add to Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers blend beautifully with the creamy sauce and pesto. Stir them in during the final step for extra color and nutrition.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, I highly recommend checking out Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for another rich and savory dinner, or try Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta that brings a bold and hearty flavor twist. Both recipes deliver that same indulgent creamy satisfaction with their own unique personalities.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe to your Pinterest board so you can find it easily when cravings strike. Share it with your friends on Facebook or email it to someone who loves a comforting pasta dish. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to keep this one in your regular rotation!

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