If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm embrace, this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, luscious sauce made with pesto and cheeses that come together in a beautiful harmony of taste and texture. Whether you’re cooking for the family or a cozy dinner for yourself, this dish is a wonderful way to indulge in creamy goodness with a fresh, herbaceous twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe just right comes down to a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the al dente penne that provides the perfect bite, to the vibrant pesto that brightens the creamy sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish a success.
- Penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape for holding onto the creamy sauce and pesto with every forkful.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they add hearty protein and a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with pesto.
- Olive oil: For cooking the chicken and garlic, adding a fruity smoothness to the dish.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a fragrant aroma and a sharp kick that balances the richness of the sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs that enhances the savory depth of the chicken.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Creates the base of the sauce with a silky richness.
- Flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds a light savory background that keeps the sauce flavorful without heaviness.
- Half and half (1 cup): Makes the sauce decadently creamy without overpowering the pesto.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that deepens the sauce complexity.
- Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully to add gooey, luscious texture.
- Pesto (1/2 cup): The star herbaceous sauce that delivers freshness and vibrant color.
- Fresh basil: For garnish, lending a burst of bright green and fragrance.
- Black pepper: A final sprinkle to bring subtle heat and aroma.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta until it’s perfectly al dente, following the package instructions. Al dente means the pasta will have just a slight firmness when you bite into it, providing a satisfying texture that holds up wonderfully when tossed with the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside to wait for the star of the show.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting the garlic sizzle just until fragrant to infuse the oil with amazing flavor. Then, add the chicken breasts, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink inside and has developed a gorgeous golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, reserving those flavorful drippings.
Step 3: Make the creamy sauce base
The magic begins here! In the same skillet, melt the butter, stirring it to combine with the pan drippings for extra flavor. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture turns a lovely golden color — this creates a roux that will thicken your sauce. Gradually add the chicken broth and half and half while whisking; bring this mixture to a simmer and let it thicken into a silky smooth sauce that promises deep comfort with every spoonful.
Step 4: Add cheeses and pesto
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the pesto along with the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. The cheeses melt into the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy and rich, while the pesto adds that burst of fresh basil and pine nuts that brighten every bite. This step transforms your sauce into the ultimate creamy, dreamy base for the pasta and chicken.
Step 5: Combine pasta and chicken with sauce
Return the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are fully coated in the luscious green-hued sauce. This is the moment everything comes together as a harmonious, comforting meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 6: Garnish and enjoy
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and freshly ground black pepper to add a pop of color and a little peppery kick. Serve immediately and get ready to savor every creamy, flavorful forkful of this heartwarming dish.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh basil and black pepper are classic finishing touches, feel free to get creative. A few toasted pine nuts provide crunch and extra nutty depth. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest can add a bright contrast to the richness. These small additions elevate your presentation and taste, making the dish even more special.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers peppery freshness to balance the creamy pasta. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or cherry tomatoes, complement its flavors beautifully while adding color and nutrition. Garlic bread is a classic and irresistible partner, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this pasta in individual shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful green sauce and garnishes. For a rustic touch, use wooden boards with bowls of grated Parmesan and fresh herbs side-by-side so everyone can customize their serving. Alternatively, bake it briefly with extra mozzarella on top until golden and bubbly for a delightful twist on presentation and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can easily store any leftover Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce will thicken, so stirring in a splash of milk or broth when reheating helps restore that luscious creaminess.
Freezing
While freezing this pasta is possible, be aware that the creamy texture and cheese may change slightly after thawing. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pasta gently in a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a little chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and avoid drying out. Stir frequently until heated through and creamy again. Avoid microwaving in large portions as it may cause uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended for its shape and texture, other pasta like fusilli or rigatoni also work well because they hold onto the creamy pesto sauce beautifully.
Is there a substitute for half and half in the sauce?
You can replace half and half with equal parts milk and cream, or use whole milk if you prefer a lighter sauce. Just be mindful it might not be quite as rich and creamy.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour for the roux will make this recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten. Many stores offer tasty gluten-free pastas that hold up well in creamy dishes.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead. You can also use vegetable broth to make the sauce vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can cook the pasta and chicken ahead and refrigerate them separately. The sauce is best made fresh, but you can prepare the roux base early and just add liquids and cheeses when cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is truly a showstopper that brings together comfort food vibes and fresh, vibrant flavors in one satisfying plate. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something quick but special, or for sharing with loved ones who appreciate a cozy meal made with care. I can’t wait for you to try this at home and see how quickly it becomes a go-to family favorite just like it did in mine.
Print
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a comforting family favorite combining tender chicken breasts, al dente penne pasta, and a rich homemade pesto cream sauce. This delightful dish offers a perfect balance of flavors from garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil, all enveloped in a luscious cheesy sauce made with Parmesan and mozzarella. It’s a quick and satisfying meal ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pesto
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring briefly to release their aromas. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and bubbly, creating a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Add Cheese and Pesto: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy with melted cheeses evenly incorporated.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Slice or shred the cooked chicken breasts and add them back into the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and chicken completely in the creamy pesto sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top and add a dash of freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting, flavorful creamy chicken pesto pasta.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half and half with whole milk or a lactose-free alternative.
- You can prepare the pesto sauce in advance or use store-bought for convenience.
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta; al dente texture complements the creamy sauce best.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.
