If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta all wrapped up in a luscious, flavorful pesto cream sauce. The little bursts of cherry tomatoes and the bright touch of fresh spinach add color and freshness that truly elevate this dish. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to share with friends and family. Get ready, because this recipe might just become your new go-to comfort food!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe lies in using a handful of straightforward, quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from the rich cream that makes the sauce irresistibly smooth to the fresh basil pesto bringing a fragrant burst of flavor. Together, they create a harmonious dish that’s both vibrant and deeply satisfying.
- 2 cups penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy pesto sauce in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a lovely sear on the chicken that adds great flavor and texture.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein that soaks up all the sauce’s goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, dreamy texture of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup basil pesto: The star seasoning that brings herbaceous brightness and depth.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty richness that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Provide juicy pops of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 cups baby spinach: A fresh, leafy green that softens right in the warm sauce.
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional): For an extra crunch and buttery finish.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: A lovely, aromatic touch for serving.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water until just tender, following the package instructions. This step is essential because perfectly cooked pasta acts as the canvas for all that creamy pesto magic. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them simply with salt and pepper. Cook until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This searing locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and pour the heavy cream into the same skillet. Let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. This allows the cream to thicken slightly while soaking up all those wonderful flavors left behind by the chicken.
Step 4: Add Pesto and Parmesan
Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese until everything blends into a smooth, creamy sauce. This mixture is where the dish really comes alive with vibrant herb notes and cheesy richness that coats every bite.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Veggies
Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet and toss them together with the sauce. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and baby spinach, making sure everything is evenly coated. The tomatoes add freshness while the spinach wilts slightly, bringing a lovely pop of green and nutrients.
Step 6: Final Simmer
Allow the pasta to cook gently for another 2 to 3 minutes so the spinach softens and all the flavors meld together beautifully. This step guarantees every forkful bursts with warmth, creaminess, and vibrant color.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve the creamy chicken pesto pasta straight from the skillet, optionally topped with toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch and scattered fresh basil leaves for an herbal lift. This dish looks as good as it tastes, making it the perfect centerpiece for any meal.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe with fresh basil leaves not only adds a pop of green but also enhances the aromatic quality of the dish. Toasted pine nuts are a wonderful optional garnish that provide a subtle nuttiness and crunch, elevating the texture. Don’t be shy to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for a finishing touch of salty goodness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread is another fantastic side, perfect for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce. For something heartier, roasted vegetables offer complementary earthiness without overwhelming the main flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a few halved cherry tomatoes and basil leaves artfully placed on top. You could also twirl portions onto forks and place them on serving platters with scattered pine nuts for an elegant touch. Adding colorful edible flowers or microgreens can turn this comforting dish into a dinner party showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining the creamy texture. Give it a gentle stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce evenly.
Freezing
While freezing this creamy dish isn’t ideal due to the sauce’s delicate texture, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pesto sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and then mix with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce seems too thick. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents it from breaking apart. Microwave reheating works too, but stir well halfway through heating to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great for holding the sauce, you can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle according to your preference. Each shape will bring a slightly different texture experience but remain delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and feel free to add extra veggies such as mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes to keep the dish hearty and satisfying. You can even add some toasted chickpeas for protein.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
You can try using half-and-half or whole milk to make a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce might be less rich and creamy. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent the sauce from curdling.
What kind of pesto is best for this recipe?
This recipe shines brightest with a classic basil pesto, either homemade or good-quality store-bought. If you want to experiment, sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto offer unique twists but will change the flavor profile.
How can I add more flavor to the chicken?
Marinate the chicken in a little lemon juice, garlic, and salt before cooking for an extra pop of brightness. Alternatively, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or smoked paprika while searing for a subtle twist.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is a true celebration of comforting flavors and effortless elegance. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, it hits all the right notes with creamy richness, fresh herbs, and tender chicken. I promise once you try making it at home, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation. So grab your ingredients and get ready to savor every delicious bite!
Print
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and flavorful creamy chicken pesto pasta featuring tender chicken pieces, al dente penne pasta, and a luscious sauce made with heavy cream, basil pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with cherry tomatoes, fresh baby spinach, and optional toasted pine nuts for added texture, this one-pan skillet recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups penne pasta
Chicken & Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables & Garnish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season generously with salt and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Simmer the Cream: Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream to the same skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and allow it to reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Make the Pesto Sauce: Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese into the cream. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth, combined, and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the creamy pesto sauce.
- Heat Through: Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and all ingredients are heated through, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with toasted pine nuts if desired. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for extra aroma and color. Serve immediately.
Notes
- To toast pine nuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it will be less creamy.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free penne pasta.
- Fresh basil pesto adds the best flavor; store-bought pesto can be used for convenience.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
