Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce

Name: Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Cooking

I love whipping up this Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce whenever I need a quick yet indulgent meal. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, herbaceous pesto sauce coated in cream creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to impress. In just a matter of minutes, this vibrant meal takes shape with familiar ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Each bite bursts with flavor, and I can’t wait to share how this dish comes together effortlessly!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-27T12:10:35.583Z

When I first made this Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce, I was amazed by how good something so simple could be! To get the most flavor, I marinated the chicken in a bit of olive oil and garlic before cooking, which made it incredibly juicy and tender. The addition of cream to the pesto not only enriches the sauce but also balances the freshness of the basil beautifully.

One tip that I’d really recommend is to toast your pine nuts before adding them to the pesto. This extra step enhances the nutty flavor and adds another layer of depth to the dish. The result is a vibrant meal that has become a staple in my kitchen, and I'm sure it will become yours too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy sauce bringing comforting flavors together
Easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes
A wonderful way to enjoy fresh basil year-round

Choosing the Right Pasta

For this Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce, the choice of pasta can significantly affect the dish’s overall texture and flavor. I prefer using penne or fusilli, as their shape allows the creamy pesto sauce to cling beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. You can also experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options; just adjust cooking times according to package instructions for the best results.

As you’re cooking your pasta, keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking. Look for a firm texture that provides a bit of resistance when bitten into—this is known as ‘al dente.’ Having that slight bite not only enhances the dish but also helps in holding onto the creamy sauce, preventing it from becoming overly slippery.

The Perfect Pesto

Preparing the pesto is a crucial step in this recipe, and using fresh basil leaves ensures a vibrant flavor. When combining your ingredients in the food processor, pulse them gently rather than blending them too finely at first; you want to preserve some texture in your pesto. If you find your pesto is too thick, adding a bit more olive oil will help create that smooth, glossy finish we all love.

To boost the richness of the pesto for this creamy sauce, consider adding a touch of lemon juice. This not only brightens the flavors but also balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning; a pinch of salt can elevate the herbal notes of the basil, making your pesto irresistibly flavorful.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce is ready, serving it hot is key to ensuring that the flavors blend beautifully. Consider garnishing with additional grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for a restaurant-worthy appearance. For a bit of added crunch, toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top can provide a delightful contrast.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent separation. This dish also freezes well, so prepping a batch ahead means you can indulge in this creamy goodness whenever cravings strike!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce:

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.

Make the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until the mixture is smooth.

Combine and Serve

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the pesto and heavy cream. Heat gently and add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Toss in the pasta and sliced chicken and mix well. Serve hot with additional Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce!

Pro Tips

For a vibrant twist, add cherry tomatoes or spinach to the dish right before serving to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're short on pine nuts, walnuts or even sunflower seeds work as excellent substitutes for your pesto. They’ll still add that needed nutty flavor without compromising the richness. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese; it offers a similar umami punch and is a great vegan swap.

For a lighter sauce, consider replacing heavy cream with half-and-half or a blend of Greek yogurt and broth. This modification reduces richness while still providing the creamy mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with the pesto. Just be careful not to heat it too fiercely to avoid curdling.

Reinventing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto can easily be reinvented into a delightful casserole. Simply add an extra layer of cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden and bubbly. This not only rejuvenates the flavors but also creates a comforting, all-in-one meal that's perfect for those busy nights.

Alternatively, you can transform this dish into a pasta salad by chilling the pesto pasta and tossing it with additional fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette can add a refreshing tang, making it a great option for potlucks and picnics.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto can save time while still providing great flavor. Just add the cream to blend it into a sauce.

→ What can I substitute for pine nuts?

If you don't have pine nuts, walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives and still deliver a nutty flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can make it ahead and just reheat it gently, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.

→ Can I freeze the creamy pesto sauce?

It’s best to freeze the pesto before adding cream. You can thaw and mix in cream when ready to serve.