Introduction
Creamy pesto chicken pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich pesto sauce. Many home cooks search for creamy pesto chicken pasta because it delivers both freshness and comfort in a single bowl. This recipe blends the simplicity of weeknight cooking with the vibrant flavors of pesto, creating a meal that tastes restaurant-worthy without the fuss.
Table of Contents
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta – The Defined Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy pesto chicken pasta combining tender chicken, pasta, and rich basil pesto sauce.
Ingredients
2 boneless chicken breasts
12 oz pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. Season and cook chicken.
3. Sauté garlic and add broth.
4. Stir in pesto and cream.
5. Add Parmesan and adjust thickness.
6. Combine pasta and sauce.
7. Top with sliced chicken.
Notes
Add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken & Pasta Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 2 medium |
| Pasta (penne or fusilli) | 12 oz |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Pesto Cream Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Basil pesto | 1/2 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing.
Step 3: Create the sauce
Using the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and basil pesto, blending until smooth. Add lemon juice for brightness.
Step 4: Add cheese and adjust texture
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
Step 5: Combine pasta and chicken
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Simmer lightly to meld flavors.
Helpful Tips:
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
- Use fresh Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
- If using store-bought pesto, choose one with olive oil and real basil for richer taste.
Conclusion
Creamy pesto chicken pasta makes an ideal weeknight dinner thanks to its rich texture and fresh flavors. With simple pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, it delivers a satisfying meal that appeals to both pesto lovers and pasta enthusiasts. This dish balances creaminess with brightness, offering a comforting yet vibrant option for any season.
FAQs About Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Can I make creamy pesto chicken pasta ahead of time?
Yes, creamy pesto chicken pasta can be made ahead, though the sauce thickens as it cools. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
What type of pasta works best for creamy pesto chicken pasta?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli holds the sauce well and maintains texture.
Can I substitute the chicken in creamy pesto chicken pasta?
You can replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or a plant-based protein for flexibility.
Does homemade pesto improve creamy pesto chicken pasta?
Fresh pesto offers more vibrant basil flavor and enhances the overall richness of the dish.