Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, the weeknight meal that tastes like a little bit of Italian heaven in every bite! Juicy morsels of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a sauce that’s both silky and cheesy are all swept up by the bold, herby brightness of basil pesto. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish is bursting with flavor and comes together in just 30 minutes. Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta will soon be your new go-to for quick comfort that never skimps on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines thanks to a handful of simple, powerful ingredients. Each one plays a distinctive part—bringing color, depth, texture, and that signature pesto zing. There’s nothing fussy, but every item makes a noticeable difference in the final Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta masterpiece.

• Penne Pasta: The hollow tubes are perfect for catching all that creamy, pesto-flecked sauce with every forkful.
• Olive Oil: Gives the chicken a lovely sear while infusing richness into the dish.
• Garlic Cloves (minced): Adds a warm, aromatic base that complements the pesto beautifully.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a subtle layer of herby flavor, tying together all the classic Italian notes.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Cut into chunks for even cooking, these juicy bites deliver the dish’s hearty, satisfying protein.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, enhancing every savory bite.
• Butter: Provides velvety richness as you build the creamy sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: Key for thickening your sauce into luscious perfection.
• Chicken Broth: Deepens the savory flavor and builds the sauce’s body.
• Half and Half (or milk/cream): Makes the sauce extra creamy while keeping it light and silky.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan: Delivers nutty, salty depth that marries with the pesto.
• Freshly Shredded Mozzarella: Melts into gooey, cheesy bliss—add gradually for best results.
• Basil Pesto: The star ingredient; add more to dial up the vibrant herby flavor as you like.
• Fresh Basil (for garnish): Chopped basil adds a pop of green and a fragrant finish if you want a little extra flourish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

First up, cook your penne pasta according to the package directions, just until al dente. The pasta needs to retain a gentle bite, ensuring it doesn’t get mushy when tossed with the creamy sauce later. Once done, drain and set aside—don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Warm a large skillet over medium heat and add your olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting them sizzle for just a moment to release their aromas before adding the chicken chunks. Season generously with salt and pepper, then cook until the chicken is no longer pink and has a touch of golden brown on the edges. Scoop out the chicken and set it aside, discarding any excess liquid in the pan.

Step 3: Build the Roux

Add the butter to your empty skillet and let it melt before sprinkling in the all-purpose flour. Whisk the mixture for about three minutes, just until it turns golden and smells nutty—this is the flavor base for your sauce, and skipping this step shortchanges the whole dish!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half & half. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it thicken for about five minutes, stirring so it doesn’t stick. You want a sauce that will beautifully coat each piece of pasta and chicken without feeling heavy.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheeses and Pesto

Take the skillet off the heat and stir in your basil pesto, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Here’s the secret: add the cheese in small handfuls, mixing each time to prevent the mozzarella from clumping. You’re aiming for a glossy, cohesive sauce packed with creamy and herby goodness—this is where the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta really comes alive.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing gently to coat each bite with the luscious sauce. If the sauce seems a bit thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will loosen things up perfectly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve right away for peak deliciousness!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with freshly chopped basil and a generous grind of cracked black pepper for a restaurant-worthy finish. A final snow of extra Parmesan makes it simply irresistible and full of visual appeal. Don’t be shy—the more vibrant, the better!

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a crisp, lemony side salad or quick roasted veggies to keep things balanced. Warm garlic bread or a rustic baguette is fantastic for mopping up any extra sauce—because with a sauce this dreamy, you won’t want to waste a drop.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta into a showstopper by serving it in a large, shallow platter garnished with basil sprigs and lemon zest. Or, spoon it into individually baked ramekins, top with a sprinkle of cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish. Nothing says “special” like a personal pasta bake!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully for up to four days in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta has cooled completely before sealing it up, so the sauce stays smooth and creamy for round two.

Freezing

This dish is surprisingly freezer-friendly. Portion cooled Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta into meal-sized containers, and it’ll stay tasty for up to four months. When you’re ready for another cozy plate, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

To reheat, add your pasta to a skillet with a splash of milk over low heat. This helps restore the creaminess and keeps the cheese from getting gluey. Stir gently and heat just until warmed through—no one likes a dry pasta experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, rotini, rigatoni, or even shells will work beautifully. Just aim for a shape that’s sturdy and loves to scoop up sauce.

Is there a way to lighten up Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

You sure can. Swap out half and half for whole milk or even a lighter cream, use less cheese if you prefer, or add extra veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for nutrition and pop.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with pre-cooked chicken?

Definitely. If you have leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken, simply shred it and toss it in with the sauce just to heat through. It’s a clever shortcut for busier nights!

What if my mozzarella seizes up?

No worries! Add the mozzarella in small amounts, stirring well after each addition. If it still gets stringy, a splash of extra hot milk or broth can help loosen things up. The cheese will melt into the sauce as you keep stirring.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes! While homemade is always a treat, good-quality store-bought pesto is a fantastic, convenient substitute. You can even experiment with varieties like sun-dried tomato pesto for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

If you crave something cozy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is it—both effortless enough for a Tuesday and celebratory enough for friends. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it wins a regular spot in your dinner rotation!

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