Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce

Name: Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice (like fettuccine or penne); 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Speedy Meal Ideas

I absolutely love making this Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce, and it has quickly become a favorite in my home. The creamy, vibrant pesto clings perfectly to each piece of al dente pasta, and adding juicy chicken takes it to a whole new level. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy, and let’s be honest, it’s really simple to make. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe always impresses and keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:53:35.624Z

Cooking is my love language, and this Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce truly speaks volumes. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of freshly blended pesto filled my kitchen, making my family eagerly anticipate dinner. The key to its success is using good quality basil and a splash of cream that adds richness without overpowering the flavor.

As I experiment with different ingredients, I've learned that adding a hint of lemon zest brightens the sauce, creating a delightful balance that keeps it fresh. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that I can’t resist serving repeatedly.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce enhanced by fresh basil and garlic
Tender chicken that blends seamlessly with the pasta
Quick and easy for busy weeknights or entertaining guests

Perfecting Your Pesto

Using fresh ingredients is key in making a vibrant pesto that elevates your Chicken Pasta. The basil provides a bright, herbaceous flavor, while the garlic adds a subtle punch. Make sure to taste your pesto as you blend; this will help you adapt the seasoning to your liking. If you're in a pinch and don't have pine nuts, walnuts or pecans can be excellent substitutes, giving a slightly different yet pleasant flavor profile.

When preparing the pesto, be cautious with the amount of olive oil you add. Drizzle it in slowly while the processor runs to achieve the right consistency. Typically, you want your pesto to be smooth yet have some body to it—too thin and it won’t cling to the pasta well. If you find it too thick, incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta water for a creamier texture.

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

For juicy chicken breasts, cooking them over medium heat is essential. If the heat is too high, you risk drying them out and losing that tender texture. I recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing will help retain those flavorful juices, ensuring each bite is succulent.

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor to the chicken, consider marinating it briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper beforehand. Even a 30-minute marination can make a significant difference in the depth of flavor and tenderness of the meat.

Serving and Storing Tips

When serving your Chicken Pasta With Creamy Pesto Sauce, consider garnishing with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a beautiful presentation. This not only elevates the dish visually but also enhances the fresh basil notes. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal, making it suitable for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may meld even more nicely as it sits. To reheat, do so on low heat on the stove, adding a bit of olive oil or water to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Freezing is also an option, but it's best to store the pasta and chicken separately from the pesto to retain optimal texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice (like fettuccine or penne)
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon zest

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple instructions to create a mouthwatering Chicken Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they're cooked through and golden brown. Remove from heat and slice.

Make the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve a creamier consistency. Add the sliced chicken on top and mix gently.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the pasta and chicken, garnish with extra Parmesan and basil if desired, and serve immediately while warm.

Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed spinach for additional nutrition and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy-free version of this dish, you can easily swap the heavy cream with coconut cream. This change will lend a different flavor, but it's delicious and keeps the sauce creamy. Nutritional yeast can substitute for Parmesan if you're aiming for a vegan recipe, delivering a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.

For the pasta, you have a range of options! Gluten-free pasta works exceptionally well here if you're accommodating dietary restrictions. Whole wheat pasta can also add more fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the pesto beautifully.

Variations on the Recipe

Feel free to experiment with the protein in this dish! Shrimp or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can make excellent substitutes for chicken, adding a new twist to the classic recipe. If you’re a fan of spicy food, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for an extra kick.

For a different flavor profile, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers into your pasta. These additions will provide a rich, slightly sweet contrast to the creamy pesto, making the dish even more vibrant and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto is a great time-saver if you’re short on time!

→ What pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta works well, but I recommend using fettuccine or penne for a hearty experience.

→ Can I make the pesto in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pesto and store it in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap regular pasta for a gluten-free variety.