Easy Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Bianca

Founder of Red Recipe

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There’s something truly irresistible about the way creamy pesto transforms simple chicken pasta into a comforting, flavor-packed meal. One evening, after a long day of takeout overload, I decided to whip up this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta—and it quickly became my go-to dish for impressing both family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich, velvety sauce clings to tender pieces of chicken and pasta, offering just the right balance of herbaceous freshness and indulgent creaminess. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook craving something new or someone tired of fast food, this recipe brings together ease and elegance in one satisfying bowl. Stay with me—I’m about to share how this crowd-pleaser can turn any dinner into a little celebration.

Why Choose Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights when you want flavorful food without fuss. Rich, comforting flavor: The creamy pesto sauce blends fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan into every bite. Versatile dish: Pair it with veggies or make it gluten-free—this pasta adapts to your kitchen needs. Crowd-pleaser: Its irresistible taste guarantees rave reviews from family and friends. One-pot ease: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta

Chicken breasts – Choose boneless, skinless for tender, juicy pieces that soak up the sauce.
Pasta (penne or fusilli) – These shapes hold the creamy pesto sauce beautifully for every bite.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors to make the dish pop.
Black pepper – Adds a gentle kick that balances the richness of the sauce.

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Basil pesto – Use a high-quality store-bought or homemade pesto to keep that vibrant herbaceous flavor front and center.
Heavy cream – Gives the sauce its signature velvety texture and rich mouthfeel.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for that sharp, nutty depth that makes the dish irresistible.
Garlic cloves – Minced to infuse the sauce with an aromatic warmth.
Olive oil – Adds smoothness and helps meld all the flavors together perfectly.

Optional Add-ins

Cherry tomatoes – Halved and tossed in for bursts of sweetness and color.
Spinach – Stir in fresh leaves at the end for a healthy, vibrant twist on the classic.
Red pepper flakes – Sprinkle a pinch to awaken the creamy pesto chicken pasta with a subtle heat.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Season Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Pan sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden, about 4–5 minutes per side.
Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add penne and cook 1 minute shy of al dente (check package), then drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Sauté Garlic: Add a splash of olive oil to the pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute.
Stir Pesto & Cream: Lower heat, whisk in basil pesto and heavy cream until smooth and bubbling gently, about 2 minutes. Watch the sauce turn a light green and thicken nicely.
Add Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan off heat until melted and silky, then season sauce with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect nutty depth.
Combine Everything: Toss cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired creaminess. Serve hot, garnished with basil leaves and freshly cracked black pepper.

Optional: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a zesty finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Perfectly cook chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are cooked through but still juicy by not overcrowding the pan, allowing a golden crust to form.
Don’t overcook pasta: Cooking pasta just shy of al dente keeps it firm and helps it soak up the creamy pesto sauce beautifully.
Reserve pasta water: Always save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, making your creamy pesto chicken pasta silky and smooth.
Use fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a richer flavor than pre-grated varieties, enhancing the sauce’s depth.
Add garlic carefully: Sauté garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness, giving the sauce a warm, aromatic base without overpowering it.
Adjust seasoning last: Taste and season the sauce after combining ingredients to balance salt and pepper perfectly, letting the cream and pesto shine.

Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Feel free to add your personal touch and elevate this dish to new heights with these delightful variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options like brown rice or chickpea pasta for a satisfying gluten-free meal that everyone will enjoy.
Vegan: Use tofu or chickpeas for protein, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free delight.
Add Veggies: Toss in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition, bringing a fresh garden essence to each bite.
Spicy Kick: Crank up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes, turning this comforting dish into an exciting fusion of flavors.
Cheesy Variation: Mix in a blend of mozzarella and feta for a creamy and tangy twist that adds unique flavor layers to your creamy pesto chicken pasta.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or cooked bacon pieces to introduce a deep, savory note, creating a wonderfully complex dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
Herb Garden: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like parsley or arugula, elevating the herbaceous notes and adding bursts of freshness and bright color.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving to add a delightful crunch and additional richness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Storage Tips for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap pasta dishes tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in containers.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the creamy consistency of the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent separation.

Room Temperature: Ideally, serve and enjoy your creamy pesto chicken pasta immediately. If you must leave it out, it’s best consumed within 2 hours to ensure food safety.

What to Serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta?

Elevate your mealtime with delicious sides that complement the rich, creamy goodness of this beloved pasta dish.

Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavors of garlic bread provide the perfect crunchy contrast to smooth pasta, making every bite feel indulgent.
Arugula Salad: Fresh and peppery, arugula topped with cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette brightens up the meal, adding a refreshing note.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add a smokiness that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the pasta.
Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest over your dish can add a refreshing zing that brightens the rich flavors of the creamy pesto.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine enhances the flavors of the chicken and cheese, creating a delightful pairing for a cozy dinner.
Tiramisu: Cap off your meal with a classic dessert like tiramisu. Its coffee notes and creamy texture beautifully round out the dining experience.
Fresh Basil Garnish: Topping your plate with a bit of fresh basil not only looks appealing but also reinforces that fresh, aromatic essence.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their weeknight dinners! You can cook the chicken and prepare the creamy pesto sauce up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating them separately (to maintain flavor and texture). To do this, simply season and pan-sear the chicken, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. For the sauce, sauté the garlic, mix in the pesto and heavy cream, and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to heat it up. When it’s time to eat, cook the pasta fresh, toss everything together with some reserved pasta water, and savor a delicious meal that feels just as good as if you made it from scratch in one go!

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe?
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump with a slight sheen and no dark spots. Avoid chicken with any off smell or sliminess. Fresh chicken ensures juicy, tender bites that soak up the creamy pesto sauce perfectly.

Can I store leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. Let the pasta cool completely before sealing to maintain its creamy texture. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s luscious consistency.

Is it possible to freeze Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta? How should I do it?
Yes, freezing works wonderfully for this dish. Portion the pasta into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. For best results, wrap the pasta tightly in plastic wrap first to prevent freezer burn. Label and freeze for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat on the stove with a bit of cream or water to bring back that silky sauce.

What if my sauce looks grainy or separates when reheating?
Don’t worry, it happens! To fix grainy or separated sauce, reheat gently over low heat and whisk constantly, adding a little more cream or pasta water as you go. Avoid boiling, which can cause the cream to split. A little patience here pays off with a perfectly smooth, velvety finish.

Is Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta safe for pets or those with allergies?
This dish contains dairy, garlic, and nuts (from the pesto), which are not suitable for pets and can trigger allergic reactions in some people. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, consider using nut-free pesto alternatives and omit garlic or cream substitutes like coconut milk to accommodate dietary needs safely.