Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the rich, garlicky aroma of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta wafting through your kitchen. This dish brings together tender, golden-brown chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a luxuriously creamy pesto sauce that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

I first made this recipe on a whim, trying to impress a dinner guest with something that felt fancy yet didn’t require hours in the kitchen. To my delight, it quickly became a household staple, loved for its simplicity and indulgent flavors. Ready to make this weeknight winner a part of your rotation? Let’s dive in.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Get ready to meet your new go-to comfort food. This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s a crowd-pleaser that checks all the right boxes.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make, coming together in under 30 minutes from start to finish. That means you can whip it up even on your busiest evenings, and no one will ever guess how effortless it was.

The flavor combination is next-level. The basil-packed pesto, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken meld together to create a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing, with just the right amount of richness.

Plus, it’s wonderfully customizable. Whether you prefer a gluten-free pasta, want to swap the protein, or like to sneak in extra veggies, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

And let’s not forget how budget-friendly it is. With a few pantry staples like pasta and pesto, you can create a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.

Ready to see just how simple this dish is? Let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its combination of classic, high-quality ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta so irresistible.

Chicken is the star protein in this dish. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender result, but chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative if you prefer a richer flavor. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Pesto is the heart of this recipe, so choose a high-quality jarred pesto or make your own for maximum flavor. The earthy, nutty aroma of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan shines in every bite.

The cream sauce is a blend of heavy cream and a little Parmesan cheese, creating a silky texture that clings perfectly to the pasta. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.

Pasta is your canvas here. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine work beautifully because their shapes hold onto the sauce. Opt for your favorite variety, including whole wheat or gluten-free if needed.

A touch of garlic and olive oil adds depth to the dish, enhancing the pesto’s bold flavors and the chicken’s golden sear. You’ll also want to have a large skillet or sauté pan handy to bring everything together seamlessly.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creating this indulgent dish is easier than you think! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a perfect plate of pasta in no time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. While the water heats, prepare your chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Pat it dry with a paper towel to help it sear nicely.

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Add your pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining it; this starchy liquid will help you adjust the sauce later.

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil, followed by minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring to create a smooth base.

Stir in the pesto and a handful of grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is thick and creamy. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan!

Storage Options

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a great make-ahead meal, with a few tips to ensure it reheats beautifully.

For storing leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but don’t worry – a splash of milk or chicken broth will bring it back to life when reheating.

If you’re planning to freeze it, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a bit of liquid to loosen the sauce. Stir gently to ensure even heating without drying out the chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own!

For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. They’ll add a pop of color and flavor.

If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based cream and Parmesan alternative. Coconut cream works well, though it will add a slight sweetness to the dish.

Want to switch up the protein? Shrimp, cooked sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken make excellent substitutes.

For a spicy kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle the finished dish with chili oil.

Finally, experiment with different types of pesto. Sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto bring unique twists to this classic recipe.

No matter how you make it, this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is sure to delight your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find your perfect version of this comforting classic!

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