I wanted to make something simple, fresh, and full of flavor, so I decided to create this Pesto Chicken Pasta. The creamy pesto sauce mixed with juicy chicken and pasta makes every bite delicious.

This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal with family and friends. I’m sharing this recipe because it’s easy to make and always turns out great!

I love how this dish combines creamy, herby, and slightly nutty flavors. The pesto brings a fresh basil taste, while the Parmesan cheese and garlic add depth. The tender chicken makes it hearty, and the pasta absorbs all the rich sauce. Whether you serve it with a salad or garlic bread, this dish is sure to be a favorite.

I kept this recipe simple so that anyone can make it. I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for protein, and homemade or store-bought pesto for the sauce. Parmesan cheese adds a rich, cheesy flavor, while a splash of cream makes the sauce smooth and creamy. The pasta ties everything together beautifully.

I used to serve this pasta with just a side of bread, but now I love pairing it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also goes well with roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup. However you serve it, this Pesto Chicken Pasta is a comforting and tasty dish that everyone will love.

What Is Pesto Chicken Pasta?

Pesto Chicken Pasta is a delicious and creamy pasta dish made with chicken, pesto sauce, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and easy meal that combines fresh basil, garlic, and cheese flavors for a rich and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Pasta pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

How to make Pesto Chicken Pasta

Step 1

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3

Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes if using, and stir for another minute.

Step 4

Make it Creamy: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5

Combine Everything: Add the pesto to the sauce and mix well. Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 6

Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Pesto Chicken Pasta

• Use fresh basil pesto for the best taste. Homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto works well. Fresh pesto has a vibrant green color and a stronger basil aroma compared to store-bought versions.
• Season the chicken well before cooking to build flavor. Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are great choices. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes for extra depth of flavor.
• Sear the chicken properly for a golden brown crust, which adds extra taste. Cooking over medium-high heat ensures a nice sear while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Save some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency. The starch in pasta water helps bind the sauce, making it creamier and ensuring it coats the pasta evenly.
• Add a splash of cream for extra creaminess, but don’t use too much to keep the pesto flavor strong. Too much cream can overpower the fresh basil taste.
• Mix the pasta and sauce off the heat to prevent overcooking the pesto. Heating pesto too much can cause it to lose its bright green color and fresh flavor.

What to Eat with Pesto Chicken Pasta?

I like to serve this dish with a side of warm garlic bread. The crispy, buttery bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pesto sauce, making every bite even better.

Another great option is a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. The salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.

For a heartier meal, I recommend roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus. They add a touch of sweetness and go great with the pesto sauce.

How to Store Leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so when reheating, add a little milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently over low heat, stirring to mix the sauce well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta? – Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work well.

Can I make this dish dairy-free? – You can use dairy-free pesto and coconut milk instead of cream.

What can I use instead of chicken? – Shrimp or tofu are great alternatives.

How do I prevent the pesto from turning dark? – Mix it in off the heat and store it in an airtight container.

Can I use store-bought pesto? – Yes! Just choose a high-quality one for the best taste.

Can I make this ahead of time? – Yes! Store the sauce separately and mix it with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Can I add more veggies? – Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms are great additions.

Conclusion

This Pesto Chicken Pasta is a fresh, creamy, and flavorful dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a quick meal, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.