Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine); 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

I absolutely love whipping up creamy pesto chicken pasta for my family. It's one of those hearty dishes that comes together quickly and is always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious pesto sauce creates a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and fresh. Every time I make this dish, I find the vibrant flavors and creamy texture elevate a simple weeknight dinner into something special. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up any leftover pesto you may have on hand!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:52:42.653Z

When I first tried creamy pesto chicken pasta, it was a revelation! The moments spent sautéing the chicken and then mixing in that vibrant pesto sauce were culinary bliss. I love how the cream adds a depth of flavor while balancing the herbs perfectly. This dish also allows for customization; I often sneak in extra veggies or substitute chicken for shrimp to switch things up.

One tip I would share is to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente. It should have a slight bite to it, which helps it hold onto the sauce better. And don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! Adding a splash at the end gives the sauce the perfect silky finish and ties everything together beautifully.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that envelops each noodle
Fresh flavors from basil pesto elevate every bite
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners without sacrificing taste

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta can significantly impact the overall texture and mouthfeel of your creamy pesto chicken pasta. While penne holds the sauce well in its crevices, fettuccine provides a delightful flat surface, allowing for an even coating of the creamy sauce. If you prefer whole grain or gluten-free options, feel free to swap out the pasta. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some alternatives may require adjustments to achieve the perfect al dente texture.

Heavy cream is the star ingredient in this dish, delivering that rich, velvety sauce that transforms the pasta. If you're looking to cut calories, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. When using a dairy-free option, I recommend choosing one that has a similar fat content to ensure the sauce maintains its creaminess and doesn't become too runny.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing your chicken to golden perfection is essential as it imparts a lovely flavor base to the dish. Start with a medium heat to render the fat without burning it. If you're unsure, look for the chicken to become opaque and firm to the touch. If you find the chicken is browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to prevent it from becoming tough and dry—aim for a gentle, consistent simmer.

When mixing in the heavy cream and pesto, keeping the heat on low is crucial. This ensures the cream doesn’t curdle, and the pesto retains its vibrant green color. Stir until everything is nicely integrated and glossy. It’s also a good idea to have your Parmesan cheese pre-grated; this helps it melt quickly and evenly, enriching the sauce without any clumps.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your creamy pesto chicken pasta, consider topping it with freshly torn basil or arugula right before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the fresh herbaceous flavors that complement the richness of the sauce. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can also add depth and flavor, making it feel restaurant-worthy at home.

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables on the side, providing a balance of textures and flavors. If you're making this pasta ahead for a busy week, consider storing the sauce and pasta separately. Reheat them gently on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water to restore the creamy consistency—avoid the microwave, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

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

Combine Ingredients

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and pesto to the skillet. Mix well, then stir in the cooked pasta, spinach, and reserved pasta water until everything is well coated. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until melted.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts as a garnish. These ingredients truly complement the dish!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, adding a splash of water or broth can help restore the creamy texture. Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through but not boiling, which can separate the sauce. It's a good practice to taste and adjust seasonings after reheating, as the flavors can mellow.

If you anticipate leftovers, consider cooking the pasta just shy of al dente. This little trick helps prevent it from becoming mushy during storage and reheating. Cooking it to a firmer texture retains a satisfying bite, ensuring your dish remains enjoyable even on day two.

Dietary Adjustments

For a healthier twist, you can increase the veggie content by adding cherry tomatoes or zucchini to the sautéed chicken. They add flavor, color, and nutrients. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or grilled vegetables; just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

To make this recipe dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened almond cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to maintain that cheesy flavor profile. By utilizing these swaps, you can still enjoy a creamy, indulgent dish without the dairy crunch.

Flavor Variations

Consider switching up your pesto by using sun-dried tomato pesto for a unique twist or adding a bit of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. You could also experiment with adding nuts—like toasted pine nuts or walnuts—either into the sauce or as a crunchy topping, enhancing both flavor and texture.

If you're in the mood for a richer flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts to the mix. These ingredients can add an earthy depth that complements the creamy sauce quite well. Sometimes, just a pinch of lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the entire dish, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still delicious.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.