There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of fresh basil and garlic drifting through the kitchen. It instantly brings me back to my grandmother’s garden, where she would snip herbs just minutes before they hit the skillet.
These days, as a mom of two energetic little ones, I lean into quick and satisfying recipes like this chicken pesto pasta. It’s bright, fresh, and comes together with minimal effort.
Whether you’re craving a healthy dinner or need something that feels a little fancy without any fuss, this dish brings big flavor to your table and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Chicken pesto pasta is a vibrant, feel-good meal that checks every box. Whether it’s a hot summer night or a busy back-to-school evening, this recipe works beautifully. It’s fresh, satisfying, and easy to whip up with just a handful of ingredients.
- Quick to make: Dinner is ready in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Nutritious and light: Lean grilled chicken and heart-healthy olive oil keep things wholesome.
- Flavor-packed: Basil pesto delivers bold, garlicky flavor in every bite.
- Beautiful on the plate: With colorful pasta and bright green pesto, this recipe is always photo-ready.
If you’re looking for a creamy twist on your next pasta night, check out this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta that brings bold spice and comforting richness to the table.
What You’ll Need to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta
The beauty of chicken pesto pasta lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient adds color, flavor, or texture that makes the dish feel restaurant-worthy, but still perfect for weeknights. Here’s what you’ll need to bring it all together:
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for lean, tender bites. Grilled or pan-seared adds extra flavor.
- Pasta: Penne, rotini, or fusilli hold the pesto sauce beautifully. Go with whole wheat or protein pasta for a healthier option.
- Basil pesto: Homemade or store-bought. Choose one with fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, and real Parmesan.
- Cherry tomatoes: Add sweetness and color. Halve them for quicker cooking.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for melty texture and nutty flavor.
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin for cooking the chicken and tossing the pasta.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste.
- Optional add-ins: Baby spinach, red pepper flakes, or a splash of pasta water to loosen the pesto if needed.
For another veggie-packed and nutritious pasta idea, this Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a great choice that comes together just as fast and is always a family favorite.
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta
Making chicken pesto pasta is as easy as boil, sauté, and toss. With just a few basic steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dinner that’s full of fresh flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Season and cook the chicken
While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
3. Sauté the tomatoes
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to blister and release their juices.
4. Combine everything
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and pesto to the skillet. Gently toss until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.
5. Finish and serve
Top with freshly grated Parmesan and an extra spoonful of pesto. Serve warm and enjoy every garlicky, herby bite.
If you’re a fan of big flavor and minimal prep, you’ll love this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta which brings cheesy, creamy comfort to your dinner table in no time.
How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken pesto pasta is versatile enough for a quiet family dinner or a weekend meal with friends. You can keep it simple or dress it up with a few fresh additions. Here are some easy ways to serve it up beautifully.
Make it a full meal
Serve your chicken pesto pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. A side of warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto. For something a little heartier, roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus round out the meal with color and flavor.
Serve it cold for a pasta salad twist
On warm days, this pasta makes a delicious chilled lunch or picnic dish. Simply let it cool, toss with a touch more olive oil, and store in the fridge. It’s still packed with flavor and makes a fantastic grab-and-go option.
Perfect for gatherings
Hosting a dinner party or bringing a dish to a potluck? This recipe doubles easily and looks stunning on a big platter garnished with basil and shaved Parmesan.
If you’re planning your weekly menu and need more healthy yet satisfying dinner ideas, this Healthy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is packed with juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and lean protein, making it a fresh take on comfort food.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Chicken Pesto Pasta
One of the best things about chicken pesto pasta is how easy it is to tweak. Whether you’re working around allergies, avoiding carbs, or just want to use what you already have, here are a few tasty variations to try.
1. Swap the protein
Not in the mood for chicken? Try grilled shrimp, sliced Italian sausage, or even crispy tofu. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut too.
2. Make it creamy
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a rich, velvety sauce. This works especially well if you’re reheating leftovers.
3. Add extra veggies
Toss in baby spinach, zucchini ribbons, or steamed broccoli for more nutrients and color. Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers also add great texture.
4. Go low-carb
Skip the pasta and use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead. These hold up well with pesto and keep the dish light.
5. Make it dairy-free
Use a vegan pesto and skip the Parmesan. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy, and you can use grilled plant-based chicken to keep it satisfying.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or trying something new for yourself, chicken pesto pasta can be as simple or adventurous as you want it to be.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken pesto pasta holds up beautifully for leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh and flavorful.
Storing leftovers
Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep the pesto vibrant and prevent the pasta from drying out.
Reheating tips
To reheat on the stovetop, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or a drizzle of olive oil to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through.
In the microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Again, add a little moisture before heating to keep the pesto from drying out.
Can you freeze it?
You can freeze chicken pesto pasta, but it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and eat within 2 months. Reheat gently and consider adding fresh pesto before serving to revive the flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Pesto Pasta
A few small tweaks can make a big difference in flavor and texture. Here are my favorite tips to make your chicken pesto pasta extra delicious every time.
1. Don’t overcook the pasta
Cook it just until al dente so it holds its shape when tossed with the pesto and chicken. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and soak up too much sauce.
2. Reserve pasta water
Before draining your pasta, save about half a cup of the cooking water. Stirring in a splash helps loosen the pesto and makes the sauce coat the noodles beautifully.
3. Let the chicken rest before slicing
After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy and prevents the flavorful juices from running out onto the cutting board.
These small tricks add up to one truly satisfying bowl of pasta that’s bright, herby, and perfectly balanced.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Chicken Pesto Pasta
Even the simplest recipes have room for error. Here are a few things to watch out for when making chicken pesto pasta so every bite turns out just right.
Using too much pesto
Pesto is bold and flavorful, but using too much can overwhelm the dish. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed. A little goes a long way.
Skipping the pasta water
Pasta water helps emulsify the pesto and creates a silky, clingy sauce. If you forget it, your pasta might end up too dry or clumpy.
Overcooking the chicken
Dry chicken can ruin the texture of the dish. Sear it over medium heat until golden and just cooked through, then let it rest before slicing.
Not seasoning each layer
Taste as you go. Season the chicken, the pasta water, and the final dish. This brings out the flavor in every component and keeps the pasta from falling flat.
Using low-quality pesto
Pesto is the star here, so make sure it’s fresh and packed with real ingredients like basil, garlic, and Parmesan. Avoid versions with filler oils or bland flavor.
Avoiding these missteps will keep your pasta vibrant, fresh, and packed with the herby flavor you’re going for.
Final Thoughts on Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken pesto pasta is one of those no-fuss recipes that feels special but takes hardly any effort. With fresh ingredients and flexible options, it’s a dish you can return to week after week.
Whether it’s dinner for the family or a quick lunch prep, this recipe brings flavor, ease, and a touch of summer to your table all year long.
Loved this recipe? Don’t forget to pin it so you can find it later on a busy night or share it with fellow pasta lovers. It’s a keeper!
Can I meal prep chicken pesto pasta for the week?
Yes, it holds up well for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Keep the pasta and pesto separate if you want the freshest flavor when reheating.
Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe: Easy, Healthy & Ready in 30 Minutes
Chicken pesto pasta is a quick, vibrant, and healthy dinner that brings together tender grilled chicken, creamy basil pesto, and your favorite pasta for a fresh, flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice.
- In the same skillet, sauté cherry tomatoes for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add cooked pasta, chicken, and pesto to the skillet. Toss gently, adding pasta water as needed.
- Top with Parmesan and serve warm. Add more pesto or herbs if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1.5 cups
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 520kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 70mg24%
- Sodium 610mg26%
- Potassium 380mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 46g16%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 34g68%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a variation
- Add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies
- Make it creamy with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days
