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: 300g penne or fusilli pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely adore this Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce! The combination of tender chicken and fresh basil pesto creates a dish that's not only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and under half an hour to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Every time I whip this up, the aroma fills my kitchen, making it hard to resist diving in right away. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:45:36.327Z

Cooking this Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce has been a go-to for me, especially when I need something quick yet delicious. I've played around with the ratio of cream to pesto and found that a little extra cream gives it a luscious mouthfeel without overpowering the fresh flavors. It’s the subtle nuances that make each bite enjoyable!

Another tip that I learned through trial and error is to cook your pasta just shy of al dente; this way, it can soak up the flavorful sauce better while finishing off in the pan. The combination of textures and flavors has made this dish my family’s favorite, and they always ask for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy and rich texture that pairs beautifully with tender chicken
Fresh basil pesto brings a vibrant flavor to each bite
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile - great for both hungry families and intimate gatherings

Choosing the Right Pasta

For this Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce, I recommend using short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. These shapes are excellent at holding onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Penne is particularly great as its ridges can trap the sauce, creating a more satisfying experience. While the recipe calls for 300g, feel free to scale it based on your serving needs; just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it remains al dente.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free pasta varieties, which are widely available today. Quinoa or rice-based pastas can work well and provide a nice texture, though be aware that they might require slightly less cooking time than traditional pasta. Always check the package instructions and taste for doneness to achieve the perfect bite.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

The flavor profile of this dish heavily relies on the quality of your basil pesto. I recommend using a homemade basil pesto if possible, as store-bought versions can sometimes lack the vibrant flavor and freshness that homemade can provide. If you don’t have time to make your own, look for brands that use high-quality olive oil and fresh basil, and try to avoid those packed with preservatives.

Using fresh basil leaves as a garnish not only elevates the dish visually but also adds a burst of fresh flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving; this brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing acidity to balance the richness, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

For the Pasta

300g penne or fusilli pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

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

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cooked chicken, heavy cream, and basil pesto. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For a protein boost, you can add extra vegetables like spinach or artichokes to the mix. Just sauté them along with the chicken for added flavor!

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and pasta a day ahead, refrigerating them separately. Just combine everything right before serving. The creamy sauce can also be made in advance; simply reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from separating. If you find the sauce too thick upon reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, be mindful that the pasta may absorb some sauce and become a bit dry when reheated. To revitalize the dish, I suggest adding a touch more cream or pesto before warming it up to bring back its original creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

This dish works beautifully as a main course, but you can elevate your meal by pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The bright flavors of the salad will complement the richness of the pasta. Additionally, a side of garlic bread can make the meal feel more indulgent, perfect for those cozy nights in.

Consider experimenting with protein by adding sautéed shrimp or grilled vegetables for a vibrant twist on the dish. If you're looking to lighten it up, you could replace half the heavy cream with a lighter alternative like Greek yogurt, which will maintain creaminess while reducing calories.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver, and it still gives you wonderful flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half and half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Add bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.