Creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe: A Perfectly Savory Weeknight Dinner

If you’re on the hunt for an easy, flavorful meal that comes together in no time, this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe will become your new favorite. Bursting with rich, creamy pesto sauce, tender cooked chicken, and perfectly al dente pasta, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, quick family gatherings, or a cozy date night at home. It’s comfort food elevated with the fragrant flavor of basil pesto and the irresistible creaminess of Parmesan. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also super simple to prepare. Let’s dive in!

What Makes This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe So Special?

This recipe combines the creamy texture of Parmesan-rich sauce with the bold, herby flavor of pesto. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness! Plus, the versatility is unmatched — you can use your favorite pasta, experiment with homemade or store-bought pesto, and even substitute ingredients depending on dietary needs.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is practically foolproof. With minimal prep and cook time, dinner will be on the table in under 30 minutes. Your guests won’t believe it was this easy to whip up something so delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Packed with Flavor: Basil pesto and creamy sauce are a match made in heaven.
• Customizable: Swap chicken for shrimp, add veggies, or make it gluten-free by using alternative pasta.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish wins over adults, kids, and picky eaters alike.

Creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe

This recipe combines the creamy texture of Parmesan-rich sauce with the bold, herby flavor of pesto. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness! Plus, the versatility is unmatched — you can use your favorite pasta, experiment with homemade or store-bought pesto, and even substitute ingredients depending on dietary needs.

Servings 4

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

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Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or shallow pan
• Colander
• Stirring spoon or spatula

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz pasta  (penne, linguine, or fettuccine work great)
• 2 cups cooked chicken  (shredded or cubed; rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese   extra for garnish
• ½ cup basil pesto  (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• A handful of cherry tomatoes  (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh basil leaves  (optional, for garnish)
• Large pot for boiling pasta

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta

  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
• Sauté Garlic and Chicken

  In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss in the cooked chicken and stir, warming it through.
• Prepare Creamy Pesto Sauce

  Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir constantly until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Add the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
• Combine Everything

  Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat each strand in the pesto cream sauce. If the mixture is too thick, thin it out by adding a splash of reserved pasta water.
• Garnish and Serve

  Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto saves time and still tastes great. If you have more time, you can make your own by blending fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and salt.

2. What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?
Any type of pasta works! Long noodles like linguine or fettuccine are great for soaking up the creamy sauce, while shorter shapes like penne capture the sauce in their ridges.

3. Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes! Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. You can also add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini for added nutrients.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 42g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific brands or substitutions.

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Special Notes

💡 Pro Tip: Reserve pasta water for the perfect sauce consistency! The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta and adds a silky texture.

💡 For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or lemon zest on top before serving.

Calories: 520kcal

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Keyword: pasta

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is one of those classic dishes you’ll find yourself making on repeat. It’s endlessly adaptable, packed with flavor, and ideal for all occasions. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to wow your taste buds!

Pair this pasta with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For more pasta inspiration, check out our Easy Spinach Alfredo Recipe.