Why You’ll Love Creamy Pesto Alfredo Pasta with Chicken Recipe

Using a jar of pesto instantly delivers bold basil and nutty flavour without lots of prep.
Combining cream and pesto gives you a rich, indulgent sauce that still feels simple.
With chicken added, you have a full one‑pot (or one‑skillet) meal with protein and pasta.
Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s fast enough for busy evenings yet special enough for guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb pasta (such as penne)
1 lb chicken breasts (thin or split)
½ to 1 tsp kosher salt (for chicken)
8 grinds fresh black pepper
1 Tbsp olive oil
¾ cup homemade or jarred pesto (thawed if frozen)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
(Optional) Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy cooking water.
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium‑high. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and sear in the olive oil for about 7–8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (165°F/74°C internal temperature). Transfer the chicken to a cutting board.
Lower the skillet heat to medium‑low. Add the heavy cream and pesto to the skillet, whisking until combined and slightly thickened. Do not allow it to boil.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin. Stir in half the Parmesan cheese.
Slice the cooked chicken and either stir it into the pasta or serve it on top. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Total time: approximately 30 minutes (about 5 minutes prep, 25 minutes cooking)

Variations

Swap the chicken for shrimp, Italian sausage, or go vegetarian with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Use homemade pesto or high‑quality store‑bought varieties.
Substitute heavy cream with half‑and‑half for a lighter sauce.
Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, peas, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
Make it gluten‑free by using gluten‑free pasta and checking the pesto label for certification.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Avoid overheating to keep the sauce from separating and the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

What if I don’t have pesto on hand?

You can substitute with a different pesto variation or make a quick version using fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan.

Can I skip the chicken and make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach instead.

How can I make this dish gluten free?

Use gluten‑free pasta and ensure your pesto is certified gluten‑free. No other changes are needed.

Will the sauce become too thick after refrigeration?

Yes, creamy sauces tend to thicken. Add a splash of cream, milk, or pasta water when reheating to smooth it out.

Can I prepare anything in advance?

Yes — you can pre-slice the chicken, thaw frozen pesto, or prep veggies ahead. Cook the pasta and sauce fresh for best texture.

What pasta shape works best for this sauce?

Short, ridged shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the sauce well, but fettuccine or linguine also work.

Is this dish heavy?

It’s rich from the cream and cheese, but you can lighten it with half‑and‑half or extra vegetables.

Can I make this sauce dairy‑free?

Yes, use a dairy‑free cream (like coconut or cashew) and a dairy‑free Parmesan alternative. Ensure your pesto is also dairy‑free.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Serve it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Don’t overcook it. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C), then rest before slicing to retain juices.

Conclusion

Creamy Pesto Alfredo Pasta with Chicken is a quick, satisfying recipe that brings together bold herb flavor and rich, cheesy creaminess. Whether you need a comforting dinner for a busy night or a crowd-pleasing dish for guests, this pasta delivers every time — with minimal effort and maximum flavor.