Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, herby aroma of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta filling your kitchen. This quick and easy dinner is a symphony of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious pesto cream sauce that’s pure comfort on a plate.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a busy week when I craved something indulgent but didn’t have hours to spare in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes, this dish became an instant family favorite.

Ready to learn how to make this crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Get ready to add this dish to your regular dinner rotation. This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a triple threat: delicious, quick, and versatile!

First, it’s unbelievably easy to whip up. With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you’ll have a gourmet meal that tastes like it came from a fancy Italian restaurant.

Second, the flavors are out of this world. The creamy sauce is infused with the earthy, garlicky goodness of pesto, perfectly complementing the tender chicken and pasta.

Finally, it’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike. Add your favorite veggies, swap out proteins, or experiment with different pasta shapes – this dish is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Let’s take a closer look at the simple ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to balance flavor, texture, and ease of preparation.

• Pasta: I recommend penne, fusilli, or fettuccine for this recipe. Their shapes hold onto the creamy pesto sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. If you’re gluten-free, use your favorite GF pasta.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best here. They cook quickly and remain juicy when seared properly. Alternatively, chicken thighs can add an extra level of richness.
• Pesto: Use a high-quality store-bought basil pesto or make your own if you have the time. The vibrant flavors of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan truly elevate this dish.
• Heavy cream: The key to the luxurious sauce. You can substitute half-and-half if you want a lighter version, but the richness of heavy cream is unmatched.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth and enhances the creaminess of the sauce. Avoid pre-shredded varieties for the best texture.
• Garlic and olive oil: These pantry staples provide the perfect base for cooking the chicken and infusing the dish with a subtle, savory flavor.

No special equipment is needed – just a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta!

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creating this comforting dish is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta turns out perfect every time.

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sear the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
3. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
4. Add the pesto: Once the cream begins to simmer, stir in the pesto and grated Parmesan. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Combine everything: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Add the sliced chicken on top and gently mix to combine.
6. Garnish and serve: Top your pasta with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper for a final flourish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Total time: 30 minutes from start to finish – perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more as it sits, making leftovers extra delicious.
• Freezer: While freezing is possible, the cream sauce might separate slightly upon reheating. If you do freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own!

• Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus for a plant-based twist.
• Different proteins: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, grilled salmon, or even crispy tofu for a fun variation.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free pesto to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Cheesy boost: Incorporate a handful of shredded mozzarella into the sauce for an extra cheesy finish.

Experimenting with these variations will keep this recipe fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is the ultimate quick, satisfying, and versatile dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this dish will never let you down. So grab your ingredients and get ready to create a meal that’s as indulgent as it is simple. Enjoy!

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