Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than a plate of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta on a chilly evening. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious pesto-infused cream sauce is simply irresistible. It's a dish that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight meal.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with leftover pesto, and it quickly became a staple in my home. With its bright, herbaceous flavor and creamy texture, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. Let me show you why this dish deserves a spot in your rotation.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Get ready to embrace your new go-to dinner. This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is as delicious as it is versatile, offering something for everyone at the table.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Second, the flavors are out of this world. The creamy sauce is elevated by the bold, garlicky punch of basil pesto, creating a harmony of richness and freshness that will keep you coming back for seconds.

Third, it’s completely customizable. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out proteins, or use a different pasta shape, this recipe adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.

Finally, it’s a one-pot wonder for minimal cleanup. You can cook the chicken and sauce in the same skillet, leaving you with more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of well-chosen ingredients, you’ll create a dish bursting with flavor.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here. They cook quickly and stay juicy, making them ideal for this creamy dish.
• Pasta: I recommend using short pasta like penne or fusilli. Their ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated in creamy pesto goodness.
• Pesto: Store-bought pesto is a convenient option, but homemade pesto takes this dish to the next level. Use whatever you prefer or have available.
• Heavy Cream: This is key for creating that velvety sauce. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth and a touch of nuttiness. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with an aromatic kick.

You’ll also need some pantry staples like olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you have a large skillet and a pot for the pasta, you’re all set!

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creating this indulgent pasta dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time.

Start by cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce consistency later.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then cook it in the skillet until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside to rest.

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.

Stir in the pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well-coated, then serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta stores beautifully.

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: While the cream sauce may separate slightly when frozen, this dish can still be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture as it heats through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, allowing you to make it your own.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, or spinach for a meatless option that’s just as satisfying.
• Protein Alternatives: Shrimp or sliced Italian sausage make excellent substitutes for chicken.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your pesto is also gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Twist: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a keto-friendly version.
• Nut-Free Pesto: If you’re avoiding nuts, look for or make pesto using sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

With its creamy, herby goodness and endless versatility, this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whip it up tonight, and watch as it disappears from plates in no time!

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