Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like the rich, savory aroma of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta filling your kitchen on a cool evening. This comforting dish brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious pesto cream sauce that tastes like it took hours to perfect – but it’s ready in just 30 minutes.

I discovered this gem on a busy weeknight when I needed a quick yet satisfying dinner, and it instantly became a family favorite. Whether you're cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this dish promises to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Prepare to fall in love with your new weeknight go-to. Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is as versatile as it is delicious, making it a lifesaver for busy cooks.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need fancy ingredients or equipment – just a skillet, a pot, and a handful of pantry staples. Even beginner cooks can master this recipe without breaking a sweat.

The flavors are out of this world. The combination of herbaceous pesto, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

It’s also endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking to swap in gluten-free pasta, experiment with different proteins, or sneak in extra veggies, this dish adapts to your needs beautifully.

And finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Kids, adults, and even picky eaters love it, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish shine:

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best results. Thighs offer extra juiciness, but breasts are a leaner option.
• Pasta: Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works best, as their ridges hold onto the creamy pesto sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free varieties are great substitutions if needed.
• Pesto: Fresh basil pesto is the star of the show. Homemade or store-bought both work, but opt for a high-quality brand if going the store-bought route.
• Cream: Use heavy cream for a luxurious texture, or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty depth to the sauce. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

For this recipe, you’ll need a large skillet and a pasta pot to bring everything together seamlessly.

How to Make This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Making this delectable pasta dish is a breeze. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of generously salted water. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add a bit more olive oil if needed, then stir in minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the heavy cream and simmer gently, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
4. Incorporate the Pesto: Stir in the pesto, followed by the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy pesto sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.
6. Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the rave reviews!

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish – perfect for those nights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While freezing cream-based sauces can sometimes alter their texture, this dish freezes fairly well. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as it warms. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can make it your own. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, cooked sausage, or even tofu for a unique twist.
• Veggie Boost: Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers to the sauce for extra color and nutrients.
• Pasta Alternatives: Experiment with zucchini noodles, chickpea pasta, or spaghetti squash to make it low-carb or gluten-free.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan for a lighter take.
• Extra Flavor: Stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor profile.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

With its rich, creamy sauce and endless customization options, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you're serving it for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this dish always delivers. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the plate in no time!

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