Creamy chicken pesto pasta has become my go-to for a reason – it’s pure comfort in a bowl! I remember the first time I tried making it myself; I was a bit intimidated, but honestly, it’s one of the most satisfying and surprisingly quick meals I’ve ever whipped up. The aroma of fresh basil and garlic filling my kitchen is just heavenly, and that vibrant green pesto coating tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta? It’s a sight for sore eyes and a taste sensation. If you’re looking for an easy creamy chicken pesto pasta that feels restaurant-worthy but is totally doable on a weeknight, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Get ready to fall in love with this incredible dish. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience!
- It’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the vibrant basil pesto and rich cream sauce.
- This is a truly quick creamy chicken pesto pasta that comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy evenings.
- The chicken is always tender and juicy, perfectly complementing the pasta.
- You get a restaurant-quality meal right in your own home with minimal effort.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
- This quick creamy chicken pesto pasta is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks.
- The combination of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and bright pesto is simply irresistible.
- It’s a satisfying and comforting dinner that feels like a special treat.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Gathering these simple creamy chicken pesto pasta ingredients is the first step to a truly delightful meal. You’ll be amazed at how these components come together to create something so special!
- 340g (12 oz) penne pasta – or your favorite short pasta shape
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – about 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the chicken and aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory base
- 120g (1/2 cup) sundried tomatoes (in oil), drained and sliced – they add a wonderful chewy texture and concentrated flavor
- 120ml (1/2 cup) basil pesto – store-bought or homemade, this is the star!
- 240ml (1 cup) heavy cream – for that luxurious, creamy sauce
- 60g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese – adds salty, nutty depth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – season as you go
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional) – for a pop of color and freshness
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Let’s dive into the simple process of creating this incredibly satisfying dish. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying the best chicken pesto pasta with cream sauce before you know it. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.
- Step 1: Begin by cooking your penne pasta according to the package directions. Aim for al dente, that perfect firm-to-the-bite texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water – it’s liquid gold for perfecting your sauce later!
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and sauté until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, now infused with chicken flavor, add the 3 cloves of minced garlic and the sliced sundried tomatoes. Sauté for just 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes begin to soften. You’ll start to smell that amazing Italian aroma filling your kitchen!
- Step 4: Reduce the skillet’s heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Next, whisk in the 120ml (1/2 cup) basil pesto and the 60g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese. Let this delightful mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened.
- Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken is well-coated. Now, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Combine everything thoroughly until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the luscious sauce and heated through. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. This is a key step in how to make creamy chicken pesto pasta that’s perfectly saucy.
- Step 6: Serve your magnificent creamy chicken pesto pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if you like. Enjoy this simple yet elegant meal!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Want to elevate your dish from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be serving up the most delicious creamy chicken pesto pasta your friends and family have ever tasted!
- Always use good quality basil pesto; it’s the heart of this dish!
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key for the best texture.
- Reserve some pasta water – it’s your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- Consider toasting pine nuts for your pesto (if making homemade) for an extra layer of nutty flavor.
What’s the secret to perfect creamy chicken pesto pasta?
The real magic lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Using quality basil pesto and ensuring your cream sauce is just right, not too thick or too thin, is crucial for the best creamy chicken pesto pasta. Don’t skip reserving that pasta water!
Can I make creamy chicken pesto pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken separately, and make the sauce. Store them individually in the refrigerator. Combine and reheat gently just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor for your creamy chicken pesto pasta. For more information on food safety and storage, you can check out foodsafety.gov.
How do I avoid common mistakes with homemade creamy chicken pesto pasta?
A common pitfall is making the sauce too thick or too thin. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency. Also, avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be tender, not dry. Finally, don’t skimp on seasoning – taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed for your homemade creamy chicken pesto pasta. If you’re interested in learning more about proper seasoning techniques, resources like Serious Eats offer great insights.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
This rich and flavorful pasta dish is a meal in itself, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can make it even more special. Serving it piping hot ensures the creamy sauce is at its most luxurious. Think of these as perfect creamy chicken pesto pasta side dishes that round out the meal beautifully.
For a classic Italian experience, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is ideal. The crispness of the greens and the tang of the dressing cut through the richness of the pasta. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread is always a winner for soaking up any extra delicious sauce. You could also serve it with steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli for a touch of freshness and extra veggies. For more ideas on complementary side dishes, you might find inspiration on Allrecipes.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
This is a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving for this delicious creamy chicken pesto pasta dinner:
- Calories: 680cal
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For more detailed nutritional analysis, consider consulting resources like the USDA FoodData Central.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
I love that this chicken pesto pasta with cream sauce is fantastic for leftovers! Once your delicious meal has cooled down, it’s time to think about storage. For the best quality, transfer any remaining pasta into airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save some for an even longer period, this dish also freezes remarkably well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results. You can find more tips on proper food storage from the FDA.
Reheating is simple! For refrigerated leftovers, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Frozen portions can be reheated using the same skillet method after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
What exactly is creamy chicken pesto pasta?
Creamy chicken pesto pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce infused with basil pesto. It’s a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The cream sauce creates a luxurious texture that coats every strand of pasta and piece of chicken beautifully.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, is a fantastic shortcut for making this easy creamy chicken pesto pasta even quicker. Just shred or dice the cooked chicken and add it in Step 5 when you add the cooked pasta, warming it through with the sauce and pasta.
What kind of pesto is best for creamy chicken pesto pasta?
For the most authentic and vibrant flavor in your homemade creamy chicken pesto pasta, a good quality basil pesto is key. Whether you use store-bought or make your own, look for one with fresh basil, pine nuts (or a substitute), garlic, Parmesan cheese, and good olive oil. The quality of your pesto will significantly impact the final taste of your creamy chicken pasta with basil pesto. If you’re curious about making your own, resources like Simply Recipes provide excellent guides.
How do I make the sauce richer?
To make the sauce for your creamy pesto chicken pasta sundried tomatoes even richer, you can add a bit more Parmesan cheese, or even a tablespoon of mascarpone cheese along with the heavy cream. Simmering the sauce a little longer will also help it thicken and intensify in flavor, creating a truly decadent experience.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta You Can Try
This recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also a wonderful base for creativity! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs, here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch of creamy pesto chicken pasta sundried tomatoes.
- For a Vegetarian Twist: Simply omit the chicken! You can add a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Make it a Bake: Want to turn this into a comforting pasta bake? Combine the sauced pasta and chicken in a baking dish, top with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrition and flavor by adding steamed broccoli florets, wilted spinach, or asparagus spears in the last few minutes of cooking. They add a lovely freshness and color to the dish.
- Spice it Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic and sundried tomatoes. This gives a subtle kick that complements the creamy pesto beautifully.
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta: Deliciously Quick!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and creamy chicken pesto pasta with sundried tomatoes. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 340g (12 oz) penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 120g (1/2 cup) sundried tomatoes (in oil), drained and sliced
- 120ml (1/2 cup) basil pesto
- 240ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 60g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until cooked through and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sundried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the basil pesto and Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained pasta and combine well until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a healthier option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and simmer it longer.
- Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be used as a shortcut.
- Wholewheat pasta is a good alternative.
- Sunflower seeds can be used as a substitute for pine nuts.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days and may taste even better the next day.
- When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to prevent drying out.
- A light salad or garlic bread makes a great accompaniment.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 680cal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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