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); 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

When I first made Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, I was surprised by how quickly a delicious meal could come together. The vibrant flavors of basil pesto combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta create a harmonious dish that feels indulgent yet simple. Whether I’m serving it for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, the creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. It’s a dish that I love to whip up when I want comfort with a gourmet touch.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:00:48.713Z

During my first attempt at making this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, I experimented with different kinds of pasta and proteins. Using spiralized zucchini instead of traditional pasta gave the dish a fresh twist while keeping it light. I found that the variety you choose can elevate the entire dish, allowing for fantastic personalization. I also discovered that letting the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes allows the flavors to truly meld together.

Another key tip is to reserve some pasta cooking water to add to the sauce. This little trick transforms the creaminess, making it cling to the pasta perfectly while enhancing the overall taste. Each bite was a delightful balance of creamy and herbaceous notes, which is why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Luxuriously creamy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Packed with fresh flavors from homemade basil pesto
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night of the week

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When preparing Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, using quality ingredients is essential for maximizing flavor. Fresh basil and high-quality Parmesan cheese can transform this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Homemade pesto beats store-bought nine times out of ten, as you can adjust the garlic and nut content to fit your taste. If you’re short on time, choose a commercially prepared pesto that has minimal preservatives and is made from fresh ingredients for a better flavor profile.

The choice of pasta also plays a crucial role. Penne and fettuccine both hold the creamy sauce well, but fettuccine offers a delightful texture that wraps around the chicken and tomatoes beautifully. For a healthier alternative, consider whole wheat or gluten-free pasta; just keep an eye on the cooking time as they can cook faster or slower than traditional pasta.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creamy pesto sauce is the heart of this dish. When combining the pesto and heavy cream, make sure to lower the heat to prevent the cream from curdling. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully without compromising the rich texture. Stir continuously for about 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and thickens slightly, creating a silky coating for the pasta.

If your sauce turns out too thick, don't worry! This is where the reserved pasta water comes into play. Adding it gradually will help you achieve the perfect consistency without making the dish too watery. I recommend starting with a tablespoon of pasta water at a time, stirring well to incorporate, until you reach that luscious, creamy texture you desire.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Serving Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a joy because it looks as good as it tastes. For an attractive presentation, garnish your dish with freshly torn basil leaves and extra Parmesan. Serve it warm, and consider pairing it with a light salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. A drizzle of olive oil over the top before serving can add a nice finishing touch and depth of flavor.

If you find yourself with leftovers, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce's consistency. Freezing is possible, too, but I recommend omitting the cream and adding it fresh when reheating for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you'll be on your way to creating this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook 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 a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the pesto and heavy cream. Mix well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, flavorful dish!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some spinach or arugula to the pasta just before serving. It adds a nice pop of color and nutrients!

Variations to Explore

While Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is delicious as is, don’t hesitate to mix it up! You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the chicken. For a seafood twist, substitute shrimp for the chicken; cook them until pink and opaque for a delightful variation.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas. The extra texture from chickpeas pairs well with the creamy sauce and adds protein. Just remember to sauté any vegetables before incorporating them into the pasta, ensuring they are tender and flavorful.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making creamy sauces is separation or curdling, often caused by overheating the cream. If you notice this happening, immediately lower the heat and whisk vigorously to reincorporate the fats. You can also enrich the sauce by adding an extra splash of cream or a knob of butter to help smooth it out.

Another concern could be the pasta soaking up too much sauce. This often happens when the pasta is overcooked or when it sits too long after cooking. To avoid this, always reserve some pasta water before draining and mix the pasta into the sauce immediately after cooking while it's still hot.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately. Reheat and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, tofu, or even grilled vegetables can be delicious alternatives if you're looking for variety.