Name: Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 8 ounces penne pasta, preferably with ridges; 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for pasta water); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, drained if packed in oil; 1/2 cup basil pesto, homemade or quality store-bought, plus more if desired; 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Handful of torn basil leaves, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 216 reviews

If comfort food had a superstar, it would absolutely be this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, luscious sauce that combines the nutty depth of parmesan, the fresh herbaceous burst of basil pesto, and a kiss of sun-dried tomatoes for a subtle tang. This dish comes together effortlessly in just 20 minutes, turning simple pantry staples into an Italian-inspired meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the creamy textures and vibrant flavors make this pasta one that you’ll want to share with friends or savor all to yourself.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface for a meal. In the center, there is a white rectangular plate with three raw, pale pink chicken pieces. To the right, a white bowl holds uncooked yellow penne pasta. Below it, a small clear glass bowl contains dark sun-dried tomatoes. On the left side, a clear glass bowl is filled with green pesto sauce, and above that, there is a clear glass bowl with light yellow olive oil. Near the top center, a small bunch of fresh green basil leaves is placed next to a blue bowl with white grated cheese. Two small wooden bowls, one with salt and the other with pepper, are side by side, with a small piece of yellow Parmesan cheese nearby. A white spoon holds red pepper flakes, all arranged with clear space around each ingredient. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in this recipe. From the bright green pesto that gives a fresh punch, to the creamy Parmesan that ties it all together, every element shines.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they provide tender protein that soaks up the sauce.
Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herb mix that complements both the chicken and pasta.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
Penne pasta with ridges: Its shape and texture hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
Extra virgin olive oil: For cooking the chicken and imparting a subtle fruitiness.
Heavy cream: Creates the rich, silky sauce that makes this dish decadently creamy.
Parmesan cheese: Adds savory, nutty depth with every bite.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Give a sweet and tangy pop of color and flavor.
Basil pesto: The star green sauce packed with fresh herbs, garlic, and pine nuts.
Red pepper flakes: For a mild kick of heat that wakes up the palate.
Torn basil leaves: Fresh garnish that brightens and beautifies the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken pieces in Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. This simple step coats the chicken in an herby, savory layer that will shine once cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne until just al dente. Salting the water well is key here—it seasons the pasta from the inside out, making every bite flavorful.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil and add the chicken. Toss occasionally until the chicken gets a golden-brown crust and is cooked through. The searing locks in juiciness and creates wonderful texture contrasts in the dish.

Step 4: Drain Pasta and Reserve Water

Drain the cooked pasta, but don’t forget to save about a cup of the pasta cooking water. This precious starchy liquid will help bring the sauce together and create that perfect creamy sheen.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce Ingredients

Lower the heat and add the pasta back to the skillet with the chicken. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix vigorously to release starches and thicken the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a bit at a time if it seems dry, until the sauce beautifully coats every piece of pasta.

Step 6: Add the Pesto

Remove the pan from heat and fold in the basil pesto gently but thoroughly. This last addition brings an aromatic herbiness that makes this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe truly unforgettable. Sprinkle with more Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and torn basil leaves right before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

The dish is a white plate filled with three layers of penne pasta coated in green pesto sauce, mixed with small pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken, and garnished with fresh green basil leaves and white shredded cheese scattered on top. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate. In the background, there is a white pot filled with more pasta, three small light wood bowls containing black pepper, salt, and red chili flakes, and a small wedge of yellowish cheese, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A handful of fresh torn basil leaves and an extra grating of Parmesan cheese right on top add not only beautiful color but a fresh burst that elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Light, crisp sides like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic-roasted asparagus beautifully complement this rich pasta. The green vegetables cut through the creaminess, balancing each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe in deep bowls for a cozy, restaurant-style feel, or in pretty ceramic dishes with scattered basil leaves for a rustic farm-to-table vibe. Adding a slice of crusty garlic bread on the side is always a winner and invites everyone to dig in happily.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld nicely, and it’s an easy go-to meal for the next day.

Freezing

This creamy pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in a sealed container for up to a month. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep its lovely texture intact.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir often to keep the pasta from sticking and to revive that irresistible creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While penne with ridges holds the sauce well, you can also use fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the recipe?

Heavy cream is key to getting that rich and velvety sauce, but for a lighter version, you could substitute half-and-half or a mixture of cream and milk. The sauce won’t be as thick, but still delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a tasty and hearty vegetarian version.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat. You can adjust the amount based on your preference or omit entirely if you’re sensitive to spice.

What type of pesto works best?

Classic basil pesto is the star here, either homemade or a good-quality store-bought version. The fresh herb flavor is essential to the authentic taste of this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe. It’s simple, quick, and packed with layers of flavor that feel like a special treat anytime you make it. So go ahead and dive in—you’re about to discover a new favorite that will brighten up any meal with its rich creaminess and fresh, herby pesto goodness.