Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick and comforting pasta dinner made with tender chicken, rich pesto cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an easy weeknight meal that feels indulgent while still coming together in under 30 minutes.
This recipe is ideal for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and one skillet for the sauce, this creamy pesto chicken pasta is a family-friendly dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta penne or fettuccine
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and pesto. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the creamy pesto sauce.
- Remove from heat and serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
This creamy pesto chicken pasta is rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of tender chicken, silky pesto cream sauce, and pasta creates a satisfying dinner that feels restaurant-quality without the extra work.
It’s a versatile recipe that works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for a casual dinner with guests. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients Overview
This recipe uses everyday ingredients that come together to create a creamy and flavorful pasta dish. Pasta forms the base, while boneless chicken breast adds protein and substance.
The sauce is made with pesto and heavy cream, giving it a rich texture and vibrant color. Parmesan cheese and fresh basil add finishing touches that elevate the overall flavor.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve a little pasta water if needed, then drain and set aside.
In a skillet, sauté the chicken in olive oil until golden and fully cooked. Reduce the heat, stir in the cream and pesto, and let the sauce gently simmer before tossing in the pasta to coat everything evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy pesto chicken pasta hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves for brightness. A side salad or crusty bread pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
This dish also reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers or next-day lunches.
Recipe Tips and Variations
You can easily customize this recipe by using a different pasta shape or adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach. For extra richness, add more Parmesan or a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use grilled chicken instead of pan-seared.
