Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy pesto sauce to elevate a simple weeknight meal into something extraordinary. The lush aroma of basil and garlic mingling with the creaminess of the sauce is pure comfort in a bowl.

This recipe has been a go-to in my household ever since I first experimented with leftover pesto. With just a handful of pantry staples, it's amazing how quickly this dish comes together, making it a favorite for busy nights when you still want a hearty, satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the delicious details.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Get ready to add this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta to your weekly rotation. It’s easy to make, versatile, and absolutely bursting with flavor.

First, the creamy pesto sauce is a showstopper. It’s rich yet balanced, with the bright, herby notes of basil pesto cutting through the creaminess perfectly. Whether you're a pesto aficionado or just dipping your toes into the world of fresh sauces, this one will win you over.

This recipe also shines for its simplicity. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in just 30 minutes. From the seared chicken to the dreamy sauce, everything comes together seamlessly with minimal cleanup.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also highly adaptable. Swap the chicken for shrimp, use gluten-free pasta, or toss in whatever vegetables you have on hand. The possibilities are endless!

Finally, it’s a meal that pleases everyone. Even picky eaters can’t resist the comforting flavors of this pasta. Serve it for family dinners or casual get-togethers – it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Chicken breast is the protein of choice here. It’s lean, cooks quickly, and pairs beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce. Feel free to substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.

Pasta acts as the hearty base of the dish. Penne, fettuccine, or rotini are excellent options as they hold the sauce well. Cook it to al dente for the best texture.

The star of the sauce is pesto, which you can make from scratch or buy pre-made. Look for a pesto with vibrant basil flavor and good-quality olive oil for the best results.

Heavy cream is what makes this dish irresistibly creamy. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a savory depth of flavor.

Lastly, you’ll need some pantry staples: olive oil, garlic, and salt and pepper. These elevate the dish with their simple but essential flavors.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Making this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is easier than you might think, and the results are downright spectacular. Let’s walk through the steps.

Start by cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining to use later for adjusting the sauce consistency.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Stir in the pesto and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), they store wonderfully for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta fresh.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken slightly as it sits, but a splash of water or milk when reheating will bring it back to life.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a little liquid to loosen the sauce, and it’ll be as good as new.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Swap the chicken for shrimp, scallops, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Each variation brings its own unique twist to the dish.

Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for a healthier or dietary-friendly alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or roasted red peppers to boost the nutritional value and add vibrant color.

Experiment with different types of cheese. A mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano can add a sharper, saltier flavor to the sauce.

For a dairy-free option, use a coconut cream-based sauce and dairy-free pesto. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it will still be deliciously creamy.

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

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