Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce

Name: Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well); 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Inspired Cooking

I always find comfort in a delicious pasta dish, and this Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce definitely delivers. The creamy texture of the sauce combined with the freshness of the basil pesto makes it irresistible. Every time I prepare this meal, I’m amazed by how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting friends. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy chicken in a flavorful, satisfying dish that everyone loves!

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-03-21T22:38:17.321Z

When I first decided to make this dish, I was looking for something quick yet indulgent. I opted for a creamy pesto sauce because it beautifully balances the simple flavors of chicken and pasta. To make it even richer, I added a splash of cream, which made the sauce luscious and satisfying. My family was thrilled with this last-minute creation, and it quickly became a staple in our household.

One tip I swear by is using freshly made pesto—it truly elevates the dish. If you're in a pinch, store-bought works, but there’s something special about blending fresh basil, garlic, and nuts in your food processor. It provides a flavor that is undeniably vibrant and complements the chicken perfectly. This recipe has surely become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy pesto sauce that clings perfectly to each pasta strand
Tender chicken cooked to juicy perfection
Quick and easy to whip up for any occasion

Perfecting the Pesto Sauce

The star of this dish, the creamy pesto sauce, is not just about flavor; its consistency matters significantly. When mixing the basil pesto with heavy cream, ensure to do so over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Aim for a velvety texture that clings to the pasta. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice and a handful of nuts such as pine nuts or walnuts, which enhance the nuttiness of the pesto.

Choosing the right pesto is crucial; homemade pesto typically has a fresher taste than store-bought versions. However, if you're using store-bought, opt for a brand that uses real ingredients, avoiding those with added preservatives or artificial flavors. You can also try substituting traditional basil with arugula or spinach for a different flavor profile while maintaining the herbaceous charm of the dish.

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

For the chicken, it's key to cut it into even, bite-sized pieces, ensuring they cook evenly. When sautéing, let the chicken sit undisturbed for the first couple of minutes to develop a nice golden crust. If you find your chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly; this helps cook it through without burning while keeping it juicy. Use a thermometer to check the doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

If you're looking to spice things up, feel free to marinate the chicken beforehand. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, or your favorite spices can add a new dimension of flavor. Additionally, for a healthier variation, you can substitute chicken breast with grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms, which also pair well with the creamy pesto sauce.

Serving and Storage Tips

When serving, don’t forget to garnish generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This not only enhances the presentation but also elevates the creamy flavor of the dish. For added freshness, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few basil leaves can be a beautiful touch. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a balanced meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so when reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra cream to regain its creamy consistency. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Reheat gently on the stove, adding moisture as needed.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create the perfect Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce:

Ingredients

400g pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well)
2 chicken breasts, diced
1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Let's dive into the cooking process to make this delightful pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for another minute. Reduce heat and stir in the pesto and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer to combine the flavors.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Enjoy hot!

Serve immediately and relish in the rich flavors of your Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the sauce. It enhances the nutrition and colors of the dish beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

A great aspect of this Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce is its versatility. If you're looking for a lighter option, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. This will reduce the richness while still offering a creamy texture. For those avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor enhancement without using cheese.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta alternatives such as lentil or rice-based pasta. Just note that cooking times may vary, so be sure to check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the package indicates.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe with seasonal vegetables; asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can be sautéed along with the chicken for added nutrition and flavor. Simply chop the vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking and toss them into the skillet alongside the chicken; they’ll absorb the delicious sauce.

A bit of heat can elevate this dish significantly. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the chicken can create a lovely balance with the creamy sauce. You can also add crushed garlic and sauté it longer before mixing with the sauce for a deeper, more aromatic profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto can save time and still taste great.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut cream as a lighter alternative.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pesto and chicken in advance. Simply cook the pasta when ready to serve.

→ What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread will complement this dish perfectly.