If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful meal combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a luscious, herbaceous pesto cream sauce. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese brings a subtle tang and a savory depth that elevates this simple dinner into something memorable. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this pasta recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

A close-up of a black skillet filled with creamy pasta made of short tube-shaped penne mixed with small pieces of light golden chicken and thin strips of dried red sun-dried tomatoes, all coated in a light green herb sauce with visible specks, topped in the center with a fresh green basil leaf and a bright yellow lemon wedge, placed on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy richness of heavy cream to the bright green burst of fresh basil pesto, every item is essential to crafting this irresistible dish.

8 ounces penne pasta: Cooked al dente to provide the perfect bite and hold the sauce beautifully.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into one-inch pieces for quick cooking and tender chunks.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and seasoning balance.
1 ½ tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the chicken to a golden brown, locking in juiciness.
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory aroma that builds the sauce base.
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium): Adds subtle savory notes and keeps the sauce light.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, silky texture that defines the “creamy” part of this recipe.
¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil: Drained and thinly sliced, they introduce a sweet tang and chewy texture.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (3 ounces): Brings a salty, umami punch and helps thicken the sauce.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A savory blend that deepens the herbaceous flavor profile.
⅔ cup basil pesto: The star ingredient that adds a fresh, vibrant green color and an aromatic, nutty taste.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection

Start by boiling your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains a slight bite and won’t turn mushy once mixed with the creamy sauce later. Drain it well and set aside while you work on your sauce and chicken.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season your diced chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring frequently, until it’s golden on the outside and no longer pink inside—about seven minutes total. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, leaving those delicious browned bits and juices in the pan.

Step 3: Build the Flavors with Garlic and Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to release its aromatic oils. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, followed by sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer Until Perfectly Thickened

Bring your sauce mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. Keep stirring frequently so the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld into a smooth, creamy base.

Step 5: Finish with Pesto, Chicken, and Pasta

Stir in the basil pesto until it’s fully incorporated, coloring your sauce a vibrant green and packing it with that signature fresh basil punch. Remove the pan from heat, then fold in the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta. Stir gently to coat every piece evenly with the lush pesto cream.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To add a final flourish, consider sprinkling extra grated Parmesan cheese on top along with a few fresh basil leaves. A light drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of cracked black pepper can also elevate the flavor and presentation, making your pasta dish look restaurant-worthy right at home.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads like arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a simple garden salad to cut through the rich creaminess of the sauce. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread also make ideal companions to mop up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the creamy pesto chicken pasta in individual bowls garnished with colorful sun-dried tomatoes and basil sprigs. Alternatively, plate it alongside roasted vegetables to add more texture and color that will delight your guests visually and palate-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy pesto chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to intensify overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce.

Freezing

This dish freezes reasonably well, though the texture of the pasta may change slightly after thawing. If you plan to freeze it, separate portions into freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for best flavor and quality.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Heat slowly to avoid breaking the creamy texture and to keep your chicken juicy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works beautifully here, feel free to use other shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just make sure to cook them al dente to hold up well with the creamy sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can skip the chicken and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and texture. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I substitute store-bought pesto in this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Store-bought pesto is perfectly fine and convenient to use. Choose a good quality one with fresh basil and olive oil for the best taste. Homemade pesto, however, will always add a fresher, more vibrant flavor if you have time to make it yourself.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner if needed?

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash more chicken broth or cream while stirring to loosen it up without losing creaminess.

What is the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly, and avoid overcooking. Searing over medium-high heat until just golden and cooked through will keep the meat tender and juicy inside your creamy pasta dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe is a wonderfully comforting and flavorful dish that feels like a special treat any night of the week. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend dinners. Once you try it, this recipe will surely win a permanent spot in your recipe box, delighting your taste buds and those of everyone you share it with.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe