If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken pieces swimming in a luxuriously creamy pesto-infused sauce, all perfectly wrapped around al dente pasta. Each bite bursts with the fresh, herby vibrancy of pesto balanced by the rich creaminess and a subtle hint of garlicky goodness. This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to share with friends and family, making it a go-to favorite that never fails to delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a starring role to create layers of flavor, texture, and color in this lively pasta dish. From the creamy richness of heavy cream to the fresh notes of pesto and the savory tender chicken, every element is carefully chosen to bring harmony to your meal.
- 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb): Provides the hearty protein base that becomes tender and flavorful once cooked.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle kick to the sauce that brightens every bite.
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta: The perfect pasta shapes to catch that creamy pesto sauce and hold onto every delicious mouthful.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a velvety sauce that turns this dish into pure indulgence without overpowering the herbal pesto.
- ½ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade): The star ingredient that brings vibrant, fresh basil flavor full of personality.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami and a slight nutty finish that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for sautéing chicken perfectly and adding a silky texture.
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: A secret touch that enhances the savory notes and deepens the sauce’s richness.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Garlic
Start by chopping the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly. While you’re at it, mince the fresh garlic to maximize its flavor release when sautéed. This small task sets the foundation for a dish full of vibrant aroma and tastes.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, then sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown, about 6 to 7 minutes, giving you tender, juicy bites with a lovely crispy edge. This step builds savory richness to complement the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Drop the minced garlic into the skillet with the chicken and sauté for about one minute. The key here is to let the garlic bloom without burning so it can nicely infuse the oil and chicken with its fragrant, warm flavor. This little addition makes a big difference in the overall taste.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Pesto Sauce
Lower the heat and pour in one cup of heavy cream along with half a cup of pesto sauce. Stir everything until the ingredients meld into a smooth, velvety sauce that clings to every nook of the chicken. Don’t forget to stir in a splash of low-sodium soy sauce to balance and deepen the flavor profile.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers softly, cook your choice of fettuccine or penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to save a small cup of pasta water before draining — this magical ingredient can help adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained pasta to the skillet with your creamy pesto chicken sauce. Toss everything thoroughly so that every strand or piece of pasta is luscious and coated. If the sauce feels a little thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your ideal creaminess. Finally, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan on top to bring that extra punch of savory goodness.
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a scattering of toasted pine nuts can elevate the look and flavor, adding a wonderful freshness and crunch to the dish. Sometimes, a little extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving makes all the difference.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlicky roasted vegetables on the side. Simple sides bring contrast without overwhelming the star of the show, letting the creamy pesto chicken pasta shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a sprig of basil on top and a lemon wedge on the side to brighten the flavors. Alternatively, nesting the pasta under a crispy parmesan tuile brings an elegant twist perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken and the pasta absorb some liquid, but a quick stir or splash of cream or milk can restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover creamy pesto chicken pasta, though cream-based sauces sometimes separate when frozen. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, preferably without the Parmesan topping, adding fresh cheese when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring well to bring back the smooth creamy consistency. If it feels dry, loosen the sauce with a bit of milk or reserved pasta water for that fresh-from-the-stove flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne are great for holding the sauce, farfalle, rigatoni, or even spaghetti work well too. Just choose your favorite pasta shape and cook to al dente.
Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?
Homemade pesto can be fresher and more vibrant, but good-quality store-bought pesto saves time and still delivers fantastic flavor. Whichever you choose will make this dish shine nicely.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
You can try half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind it won’t be as thick or rich. Adding a small amount of cornstarch slurry can help thicken the sauce if you do.
What’s the role of soy sauce in this recipe?
The soy sauce adds an unexpected umami depth that enhances the savory elements and rounds out the rich creaminess without tasting like traditional Asian flavors. It’s a small but key secret!
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or artichoke hearts instead. These vegetables pair beautifully with the creamy pesto and keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly one of those meals that feels like a celebration of comfort and flavor all at once. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s a dish that satisfies deeply and looks delightful on the plate. So, grab your ingredients, bring out your skillet, and treat yourself to this creamy, herby delight that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and flavorful Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a luscious blend of pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine or penne pasta. This quick and satisfying dish makes a great weeknight dinner or a comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic cloves finely to ensure they release maximum flavor when cooked.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook them for about 6-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for about one minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt, enhancing the flavor base of the dish.
- Add Cream and Pesto: Pour in the heavy cream and pesto sauce, stirring well to combine into a creamy, vibrant sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine or penne pasta in boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy pesto chicken sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water gradually to reach the desired creaminess.
Notes
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the sodium levels moderate.
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds better flavor than pre-grated.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
