If you’ve ever stood in the kitchen at 6 PM with two little ones tugging at your sleeves, wondering what you can whip up fast that’s still full of flavor, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is your answer. This one-skillet wonder came to my rescue on a chaotic Tuesday, and now it’s one of those repeat recipes I could make with my eyes closed (and sometimes, it feels like I do!).
This dish is a velvety mix of juicy grilled chicken, al dente noodles, and the bold herbaceous kick of basil pesto, all tied together in a creamy sauce that’s light enough for lunch yet comforting enough for dinner. With minimal prep and ingredients you likely already have on hand, it checks all the boxes: family-friendly, meal-prep ready, budget-conscious, and yes, absolutely gorgeous on your plate.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping lunches for the week, this healthy dinner recipe with noodles will keep everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’ve been hunting for a recipe that’s as delicious and healthy as it is practical, this one hits every note. Here’s why it’s a regular in our dinner rotation, and why it’ll probably land in yours, too:
- Quick and easy: You’ll only need 25 minutes from fridge to table. Perfect for weeknights.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters go for seconds, yes, even the green sauce skeptics.
- Meal prep-friendly: Stores beautifully in the fridge, making your weekday lunches a breeze.
- Budget-wise: Uses pantry staples, rotisserie chicken or grilled breasts, and a small jar of pesto to keep it all affordable.
The flavors are creamy and comforting without feeling heavy. The pesto brings a burst of freshness, while the tender chicken adds hearty protein, making it a solid option for anyone trying to eat healthy for dinner without sacrificing taste.
What You’ll Need for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
This creamy pesto chicken pasta keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor. Each ingredient adds something fresh, colorful, and totally craveable. Here’s what you’ll need to bring it all together.
- Chicken breast – Grilled or pan-seared, sliced thin for tender bites. You can also use pre-cooked chicken for a shortcut.
- Pasta of choice – Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well. Choose what you love.
- Pesto sauce – Classic basil pesto gives bold, herby flavor. Store-bought works fine, but homemade makes it extra special.
- Heavy cream – Just enough to smooth the pesto into a rich, velvety sauce.
- Grated Parmesan – Adds depth and a salty finish to balance the creaminess.
- Olive oil – For cooking the chicken and helping the sauce cling to every noodle.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for aroma and a savory bite.
- Salt and pepper – To season the chicken and the sauce to taste.
- Optional: Cherry tomatoes or spinach – For added color, nutrients, and that extra Pinterest-worthy pop.
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients where possible. This dish shines when the pesto is bright, the pasta is al dente, and the chicken is golden and juicy.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
This creamy pesto chicken pasta comes together fast, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Here’s how to make it in just a few easy steps.
- Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the chicken. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden on both sides and fully cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and slice into strips.
- Make the creamy pesto sauce. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the pesto and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Combine it all. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and stir until creamy.
- Finish and serve. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan, fresh basil, or even a few halved cherry tomatoes for color.
If you enjoy creamy pastas like this one, you might also love this garlic butter chicken pasta which has a similar cozy, weeknight-friendly vibe.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Creamy pesto chicken pasta is one of those dishes that can feel casual or elevated depending on how you serve it. Whether you’re meal-prepping for lunches or plating it up for guests, here are a few tasty ways to round it out and make it shine.
Serve it with crusty bread. A warm, toasted baguette or garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the extra sauce. That creamy pesto deserves every last bite.
Add a fresh side salad. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta. Arugula or mixed greens pair beautifully.
Top it off beautifully. Garnish each bowl with extra Parmesan, a few halved cherry tomatoes, or fresh basil leaves. A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze can also add restaurant-style flair.
Style it for the table. Serve it in wide bowls instead of plates to help keep the sauce nestled with the pasta. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top adds contrast and visual appeal.
Make it brunch-friendly. This pasta is surprisingly great with a soft-poached egg on top. The yolk blends right into the sauce for a creamy, dreamy upgrade.
Looking for another dinner idea that’s just as crowd-pleasing? Try this easy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe for a cheesy twist on a weeknight classic.
Variations and Customization Ideas for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
One of the reasons this creamy pesto chicken pasta stays on our weekly meal plan is how flexible it is. You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand, your dietary needs, or the flavors your family loves most. Here are some simple ways to switch things up.
1. Swap the protein. Not a fan of chicken? Try cooked shrimp, sliced turkey sausage, or even rotisserie turkey for a similar texture. For a vegetarian option, grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas work well too.
2. Go green. Toss in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or kale during the final minutes of cooking. They wilt into the sauce beautifully and add a boost of nutrition and color.
3. Try a different pasta. While penne or fettuccine are classics, feel free to use chickpea pasta, whole wheat noodles, or even zucchini noodles if you’re aiming for something lighter.
4. Add a kick. Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or top each serving with a drizzle of chili oil for a bit of heat.
5. Make it lower carb. Skip the traditional pasta and try serving the creamy pesto chicken over roasted spaghetti squash or steamed broccoli.
If you’re looking for more flexible dinner ideas that are both nutritious and adaptable, you might enjoy this healthy bruschetta chicken pasta that’s bursting with flavor and freshness.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
One of the best parts about this creamy pesto chicken pasta is how well it holds up as leftovers. Whether you’re meal prepping for lunches or saving a bit for tomorrow’s dinner, it reheats beautifully with just a few simple tips.
Refrigerator:
Let the pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
Reheating on the stove:
Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, then stir occasionally until warmed through.
Reheating in the microwave:
Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Add a teaspoon of water or milk, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot and creamy again.
Freezer tips:
While the creamy sauce can separate slightly after freezing, you can still store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stove.
For a similar make-ahead option with big flavor and freezer-friendly appeal, check out this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta which reheats like a dream.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Cooking creamy sauces and balancing flavor in pasta dishes can feel tricky, but with just a few small tips, this recipe turns out smooth and delicious every single time. Here are my go-to tricks for success.
Use pasta water to adjust the sauce.
That starchy water is gold when it comes to loosening up a sauce that’s too thick or helping everything cling together. Add it a little at a time until it’s just right.
Don’t overcook the chicken.
Whether you’re using fresh or leftover grilled chicken, keep a close eye while it cooks. Slicing it thin before sautéing helps it cook evenly and quickly.
Grate your own Parmesan.
Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make sauces gritty. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and has way better flavor.
Cook garlic gently.
Garlic burns fast. Let it sauté just until fragrant before adding pesto and cream to avoid any bitter notes.
Want another creamy, flavor-packed pasta to add to your rotation? This creamy Cajun chicken pasta brings a bold, spicy twist to a familiar favorite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Even a simple recipe like this creamy pesto chicken pasta can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few common pitfalls to look out for and how to fix them before they happen.
Adding the cream too quickly.
If your skillet is too hot or the garlic just went in, pouring in cold cream can cause it to separate. Let the pan cool slightly, then stir the cream in slowly for the silkiest result.
Using too much pesto.
Pesto is flavorful, but it can overpower the dish if you go overboard. Stick to the amount listed and taste as you go. A little goes a long way, especially when paired with Parmesan.
Skipping the pasta water.
Draining all your pasta water without saving any is one of the most common mistakes. Reserve at least half a cup before draining to loosen and emulsify the sauce.
Letting the pasta sit too long.
Once you combine the pasta with the sauce, serve it soon. Letting it sit can lead to clumping, especially if it starts to cool.
Using low-quality cheese.
This one might seem small, but it makes a big difference. Shredding fresh Parmesan or using a quality brand takes this from average to restaurant-level.
Need another easy and satisfying dinner that won’t let you down? Try this crowd-pleasing dump and bake meatball casserole for a no-fuss, comfort-food win.
Final Thoughts on Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of creamy pesto chicken pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but fits beautifully into a busy week. Whether you’re meal prepping lunches or gathering around the dinner table with family, this recipe brings flavor, simplicity, and just a little elegance to your plate.
From my kitchen to yours, I hope this becomes one of those go-to dishes you make again and again. It sure has in our home.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta – Quick & Healthy Recipe You’ll Love
| Creamy pesto chicken pasta is a quick, healthy dinner packed with juicy chicken, fresh basil pesto, and a velvety cream sauce. It’s perfect for meal prep, light lunches, or family dinners and comes together in just 25 minutes. |
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and slice into thin strips.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in pesto and heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat well. If needed, use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve warm and garnish as desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 bowl
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 520kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24g37%
- Saturated Fat 11g56%
- Cholesterol 90mg30%
- Sodium 420mg18%
- Potassium 480mg14%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 35g70%
* 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 fresh basil pesto for the boldest flavor.
- Great for meal prep: store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Swap pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
- Top with fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, or extra Parmesan for a restaurant-style look.
