If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you are going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe. It balances the richness of a luscious, cheesy sauce with the fresh, vibrant flavors of basil pesto and tender chicken, all enveloping perfectly al dente penne pasta. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe brings both comfort and a touch of gourmet to your table in under an hour, making it a true family favorite that’s as satisfying to make as it is to savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this dish shine. Each component plays a crucial role—supporting texture, flavor, and color to create a balanced and irresistible pasta meal.
- Penne pasta: The tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender when properly seasoned.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps in sautéing garlic and seasoning the chicken evenly.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings aromatic depth and a subtle spicy warmth to the dish.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs that perfectly complements the chicken with an herby, savory note.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Creates the base for the creamy roux that thickens the sauce gorgeously.
- Flour (2 tbsp): Works with butter to form a smooth, velvety sauce base.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory depth and reduces heaviness for a well-rounded sauce.
- Half and half (1 cup): Enriches the sauce with creaminess without overpowering it.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Brings a sharp, nutty flavor and melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Adds a gooey, melty texture that boosts indulgence.
- Pesto (1/2 cup): The star ingredient, giving fresh basil aroma, a hint of garlic, and a vibrant green hue.
- Fresh basil (for garnish): Adds a fresh, aromatic topping that brightens the dish visually and in flavor.
- Black pepper (for garnish): A final sprinkle sharpens and balances the richness of the pasta.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your penne pasta in salted water until it reaches a perfect al dente texture—firm to the bite but cooked through. This foundation is crucial since every bit of sauce and topping clings beautifully to pasta cooked just right. Once done, drain the pasta but save a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to release their aromas. Then, place the chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper in the pan. Cook the chicken until it is cooked through and no longer pink inside, about 6 to 8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and let it rest briefly before slicing or dicing it to mix back into the final sauce. The garlic-infused oil left behind is the flavor base for your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce Base
Reduce the heat slightly and melt butter in the same skillet to soak up all those wonderful flavors. Whisk in the flour and cook until the mixture turns a light golden shade, which removes the raw flour taste and thickens your sauce. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and half and half while whisking continuously to ensure a smooth texture. Bring it to a gentle boil and then lower the heat, letting the sauce simmer until it thickens to a rich, creamy consistency that will cling to the pasta and chicken beautifully.
Step 4: Add Pesto and Cheeses
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the vibrant green pesto along with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses melt completely into a silky sauce that shines with color and flavor. This step is where the dish transforms into a creamy dream with layers of cheesy, herbaceous magic.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Return the cooked pasta and chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce so that every piece is luxuriously coated. The creamy pesto sauce should envelop each bite with a perfect balance of flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling fresh basil leaves and a generous crack of black pepper on top. These simple garnishes lift the dish visually and add a bright, fragrant note that makes the meal feel special and inviting.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are an absolute must for garnish when serving this pasta— their sweet, herbal taste cuts through the richness of the sauce. A light dusting of freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle heat that wakes up your palate and rounds out the flavors beautifully. For a little extra crunch, you could also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a handful of sun-dried tomatoes, creating an irresistible contrast in texture and taste.
Side Dishes
This creamy, rich pasta pairs wonderfully with light sides that add crunch or freshness to the meal. A crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the basil pesto flavor while refreshing your palate. Roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans bring color and nutrition without overpowering the pasta dish. Garlic bread is an indulgent yet classic choice, perfect for mopping up the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or simply elevate a weeknight dinner, serve this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant green sauce and garnishes. Drizzle extra pesto over the top for a flavor boost and add a sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving for added texture. You can also layer the pasta and sauce in individual mason jars for a fun, portable meal that feels fresh and thoughtfully put together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy chicken pesto pasta keeps very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the best texture, separate the pasta from the chicken if possible. This helps prevent the chicken from drying out as much and lets you gently reheat portions.
Freezing
While this dish is delicious fresh, freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes change their texture. If you want to freeze it, store the chicken, pasta, and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for even reheating results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or half and half to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to ensure even warmth and to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy. Fresh basil added after reheating will brighten up the dish.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just be sure to cook them al dente so they don’t become mushy when tossed with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to keep the dish hearty and delicious. The creamy pesto sauce remains the star of the show and works well with many veggies.
Can I use store-bought pesto or should I make it from scratch?
Store-bought pesto works wonderfully for convenience and still delivers great flavor for this recipe. However, homemade pesto tends to be brighter and fresher, which can elevate the dish if you have the time.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays tender?
Don’t overcook the chicken—cook it on medium heat just until no longer pink and allow it to rest a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and tenderness that make every bite delightful.
Can I substitute half and half with something else?
You can use heavy cream for an even richer sauce or whole milk for a lighter version. Just be mindful that whole milk might create a thinner sauce, so adjust the thickening process accordingly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough trying this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe at home. It’s truly one of those magical meals that feels elegant enough to serve to guests but is quick and easy enough to make any night of the week. The meld of creamy sauce, fresh pesto, and tender chicken makes every bite a celebration. Trust me, once you’ve had a taste, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for comfort and flavor.
Print
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and cooked with garlic and Italian herbs, then combined with al dente penne pasta and a rich, creamy pesto sauce made with butter, chicken broth, half and half, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This hearty pasta recipe is garnished with fresh basil and black pepper, creating a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
- Black pepper, for sprinkling
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: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Prepare Sauce Base: 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 forms a roux.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the half and half. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Finish Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat; stir in the pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine: Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce, stirring well to coat everything evenly in the creamy pesto sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkling of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting family favorite.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can use homemade pesto or your favorite store-bought pesto.
- Feel free to substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs if preferred for juicier meat.
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best to hold up in the creamy sauce.
- Half and half can be substituted with heavy cream for a richer sauce or milk for a lighter version.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
