Name: Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300g pasta (penne or rigatoni); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 large chicken breasts, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup basil pesto; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional); 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Why You’ll Love Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy and fresh. The richness of the cream and parmesan is lifted by fragrant basil pesto and a squeeze of lemon juice. It’s simple enough for busy evenings but elegant enough to serve guests.

You’ll love how quickly it comes together using everyday ingredients. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, while the juicy pan-seared chicken adds satisfying protein. It’s also easy to customize with vegetables or different cuts of chicken.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

200 g dried pasta (or 300 g fresh pasta)
1 large chicken breast
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 cup light or single cream
1/3 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon flour for lightly coating the chicken

Directions

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, slice or gently flatten the chicken breast to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Lightly dust with flour if using.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the lemon juice and black pepper.
Add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Mix in the pesto until fully combined.
Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat. Use reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
Slice the rested chicken and place it over the pasta. Serve immediately with extra parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 generous portions
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli florets, or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.

Use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier, richer flavor.

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a slightly sweet and tangy contrast.

For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with milk.

Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream, milk, or water to loosen the sauce as it thickens when chilled. Stir well while reheating to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, a good quality store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe and saves time.

What pasta shape works best?

Short shapes like penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well, but fettuccine or spaghetti also work beautifully.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add reserved pasta water gradually while tossing the pasta to maintain a silky consistency.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and skip the flour coating on the chicken.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Can I add more protein?

You can increase the amount of chicken or even add cooked shrimp for a variation.

Why reserve pasta water?

Pasta water contains starch that helps bind the sauce and gives it a glossy, smooth finish.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be golden on the outside and no longer pink in the center. Letting it rest before slicing keeps it juicy.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients and use a large skillet to ensure everything combines evenly.

Conclusion

Creamy chicken pesto pasta is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, silky pesto cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a reliable go-to meal for both casual dinners and special occasions. Once you try it, it’s likely to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.