There’s something magical about the way a bowl of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta comes together. The rich aroma of basil pesto mingling with tender chicken and velvety cream sauce is pure comfort on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or an intimate dinner, this dish never fails to impress.

I discovered this recipe during a rushed evening when I needed to whip up something quick yet flavorful. With just a few pantry staples and a dash of creativity, this pasta dish has become a staple in our home. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore why this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Get ready to fall head over heels for your next go-to pasta recipe. Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is as versatile as it is delicious, and here’s why it stands out:
First, it’s unbelievably quick and easy to prepare. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, homemade meal faster than you can order takeout.
Second, the flavor is out of this world. The creamy pesto sauce combines the fresh brightness of basil with a luxurious, silky texture that coats every bite of pasta.
Third, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. From picky eaters to pasta enthusiasts, everyone will savor the tender pieces of chicken and al dente noodles drenched in sauce.
Finally, it’s a meal that works for any occasion. Dress it up with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for guests, or keep it simple for a comforting family dinner.
Let’s dig into the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this magic happen.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet high-impact ingredients. Each component contributes to a balance of flavor and texture that makes this dish irresistible.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully here. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and perfect tenderness.
- Pesto: Go for a high-quality store-bought pesto, or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious! The key is to use a pesto that’s bursting with fresh basil flavor.
- Heavy cream: This is the base of your sauce, providing richness and that silky texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half.
- Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are ideal because they trap the sauce in their ridges. However, any pasta you have on hand will do the trick.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, savory note to the sauce. Pre-grated cheese can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better.
You’ll also need staples like olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper to round out the flavors. No special equipment is required—just a large pot and a sturdy skillet!
How To Make This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Making Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a flawless dish every time:
- Cook the pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce later.
- Sear the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the pesto and cook for 1 minute, then pour in the heavy cream. Whisk the mixture until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil for a picture-perfect finish. Enjoy immediately!
This dish is ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect solution for busy evenings.
Storage Options
Have leftovers? No problem! This dish stores and reheats beautifully with a few simple tips.
- Refrigeration: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly as it cools, but it’s easily revived during reheating.
- Freezing: While freezing cream-based sauces isn’t always ideal, this pasta can be frozen in individual portions for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating to maintain the creamy texture.
Variations and Substitutions
The best part about this recipe? It’s endlessly customizable! Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Protein options: Swap the chicken for shrimp, grilled salmon, or even cooked sausage for a new twist.
- Vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for a meat-free meal.
- Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
- Cheese swaps: Try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a slightly sharper flavor.
Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is a canvas for your culinary imagination.
Whether you’re a pasta lover, pesto enthusiast, or just in search of a reliable dinner idea, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is sure to become a favorite. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor—everything you need for a memorable meal. Enjoy!
PrintCreamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
This creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe combines tender chicken, fresh pesto, and a rich, velvety sauce for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for quick dinners, this dish is loaded with flavor and can be made in no time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 300g (10 oz) pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup basil pesto
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and pesto until combined. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
- Use store-bought or homemade pesto for this recipe.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
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