There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta to wrap you in a warm hug on a chilly evening. The rich, velvety sauce clings to perfectly cooked pasta, while the savory notes of pesto dance around your taste buds like they just got invited to the best party in town. You know, the kind where everyone is dressed in their finest flavors, and the aroma wafts through the air so enticingly that it practically begs you to join in. For more inspiration, check out this great lunch options recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was one of those spontaneous kitchen adventures fueled by an empty fridge and sheer determination. My friends were coming over for dinner, and I had no plan. But armed with some leftover chicken, a jar of pesto I found hiding at the back of my pantry, and an insatiable craving for comfort food, I whipped up this creamy delight. The laughter around the table as they devoured every last bite was worth every chaotic moment spent cooking.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant for special occasions
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting experience with every bite
- It’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors and can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins
- Perfect for meal prep or impressing guests without breaking a sweat!
My friend Sarah couldn’t stop raving about how delicious this pasta turned out during our last dinner party; she even asked if I could make it her birthday meal! For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts based on your crowd size; they’re juicy and cook quickly.
Pasta (Farfalle or Penne): Choose your favorite type; short pasta holds sauce beautifully for an enjoyable bite.
Pesto Sauce: Opt for fresh basil pesto if possible; it elevates the flavor profile with aromatic herbs.
Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess that turns this pasta into a comforting dream.
Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Grated or shaved, cheese adds depth and richness to every forkful.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté the chicken and enhances the overall flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that will tie all flavors together beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes (optional): They add a pop of color and sweetness, making your dish even more appealing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while reserving some pasta water.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and let rest before slicing.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream over medium-low heat. Stir in pesto sauce until well combined then allow it to warm through while releasing its fragrant aroma.
Add Pasta & Chicken: Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce mixture along with sliced chicken. Mix thoroughly until everything is well coated in that delicious green goodness.
Finish & Serve: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over top along with halved cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately while it’s hot!
Now you have a delightful bowl of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ready to be devoured! Enjoy each creamy bite while relishing in how easy it was to prepare such an impressive meal.
You Must Know
- Cooking pasta al dente is essential for the perfect texture
- Always reserve some pasta water to adjust your sauce’s consistency
- Sautéing garlic until fragrant enhances the overall flavor of your creamy chicken pesto pasta
- Fresh basil elevates the dish with vibrant notes that are irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the luscious sauce. This sequence maximizes flavors and ensures everything comes together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost. You can also try different types of pesto, like sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients where possible, as they enhance flavor and texture
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender
- Remember to taste your sauce before serving; a pinch of salt may make all the difference!
The first time I made creamy chicken pesto pasta, my friends claimed it was “life-changing.” Their compliments still echo in my kitchen whenever I whip it up – talk about motivation!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto saves time and can still deliver fantastic flavor.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine or penne are excellent choices for this creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe.
How can I make this dish lighter?
Use whole wheat pasta and reduce cream for a lighter yet delicious alternative.
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken and al dente pasta tossed in a rich, velvety pesto sauce. This dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal that bursts with flavor. Add a touch of cherry tomatoes for sweetness, and enjoy every creamy bite!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz pasta (farfalle or penne)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove, let rest, then slice.
- Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, warm heavy cream over medium-low heat and stir in pesto until combined.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, mixing well to coat.
- Finish & Serve: Top with grated Parmesan cheese and halved cherry tomatoes if using. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 400g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
