If you are looking for a dish that perfectly marries rich creaminess with the fresh, vibrant flavors of basil pesto, then this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. It’s a comforting yet bright meal that brings tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious, herbaceous sauce all together in a harmonious symphony of taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple thanks to its simplicity, speed, and incredible flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large silver skillet filled with creamy penne pasta mixed with bite-sized white pieces of cooked chicken and bright green spinach leaves. There are small bits of red pepper flakes sprinkled on top, adding a speckled touch of red and black. A light wooden spoon is resting inside the skillet on the right side, partially covered by the pasta. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, showing the pasta in thick, creamy white sauce that coats everything evenly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture in this dish. From the vibrant pesto that injects herby freshness to the creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta with indulgence, every item on this list is essential.

Chicken breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless for quick cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
Pasta (penne or fettuccine): Choose your favorite type; the sauce clings beautifully to tube-shaped or ribbon noodles.
Basil pesto: Fresh or store-bought pesto provides that unmistakable punch of basil, garlic, and pine nuts.
Heavy cream: Creates that irresistible silky, luxurious sauce that binds all the flavors together.
Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and a nutty richness to the sauce, enhancing the pesto’s flavor.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing chicken and adds a subtle fruity base flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced to boost aroma and give each bite a gentle savory kick.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the dish’s flavor.
Cherry tomatoes (optional): Adds pops of sweetness and a burst of color.
Fresh basil leaves (optional): A final flourish for garnish to brighten the presentation and flavor.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling salted water and cooking your pasta according to package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. This ensures it has just the right bite and will not get mushy once mixed with the sauce. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté them until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once cooked, slice the chicken into tender strips or bite-sized pieces. This step is the heart of the dish, contributing both protein and flavor.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the basil pesto and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and luscious. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This combination of creamy and herbal notes makes the sauce truly stand out.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and chicken pieces back into the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss everything together gently to make sure every bit of pasta is coated with the vibrant, creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

For an optional but wonderful brightness, toss in halved cherry tomatoes at the end, letting them slightly warm through but still retain their freshness and juiciness. This adds a beautiful pop of color and flavor contrast to the dish.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

A white plate filled with creamy penne pasta mixed with pieces of light-colored chicken, green spinach leaves, and dark red sun-dried tomatoes. The pasta is coated in a white sauce with specks of black pepper sprinkled on top. A black fork is resting on the right side of the plate, with some pasta and chicken on its tines. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Nothing elevates this dish quite like a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves on top. These garnishes add not only gorgeous color but also burst of fresh herbaceous flavor that complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since this pasta is rich and filling, lighter side options work best. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, garlic bread to mop up the sauce, or roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini create a well-rounded meal that balances indulgence with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a striking presentation, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and drizzle with a little extra pesto or olive oil. Scatter edible flowers or microgreens on top if you have them for a touch of elegance. Serving family style in a big rustic dish also invites a warm, communal dining atmosphere perfect for any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or enjoying next-day lunches without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing

While freezable, the delicate cream sauce may separate slightly once thawed. If you do freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or cream will help refresh the sauce’s creamy texture so it tastes just as amazing the second time around.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or fettuccine works wonderfully, feel free to swap in rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti depending on your preference—the creamy pesto sauce clings beautifully to all shapes.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream provides that decadent silkiness the recipe is known for, but you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream substitute if you want a lighter or dairy-free version. The texture and richness will vary slightly.

Can I make the pesto from scratch?

Definitely! Making your own basil pesto at home with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil will elevate the dish and add a wonderfully fresh herbal aroma that store-bought versions sometimes lack.

What if I don’t eat chicken? Can I substitute something else?

Yes, you can swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, shrimp, or even tofu for different protein options. These alternatives also soak up the creamy pesto sauce beautifully and create delicious variations.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sautéing the chicken with some chili powder can give the dish a lovely kick without overpowering the fresh pesto flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick enough for busy nights but special enough to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Give it a try, and you’ll soon find it popping up frequently in your recipe rotation with all the rich flavors and comforting simplicity it delivers.