Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

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Few dishes bring together comfort and vibrancy quite like Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta. This recipe is a celebration of Italian-inspired flavors—tender grilled chicken, rich and velvety pesto sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta spirals that capture every bit of creamy goodness. With its golden seared chicken pieces and fragrant basil aroma, each forkful offers a delightful balance of creaminess and zest.

Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy meal with friends, this dish fits the moment. It’s rich without being heavy, fresh without being overly herby, and indulgent in a satisfyingly simple way. From the slight crunch of Parmesan on top to the hearty pasta underneath, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is bound to be a favorite for anyone who loves bold, creamy, herbaceous flavors.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

• Comfort meets freshness: Creamy pesto adds richness while basil and garlic keep it light and aromatic.
• Quick and easy: With minimal prep, this meal comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Swap pasta shapes, use rotisserie chicken, or go gluten-free—this dish adapts easily.
• Kid and adult approved: It’s mild, flavorful, and perfect for the whole family.
• Restaurant-quality at home: Impress guests with this gourmet-looking (and tasting) pasta.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and the Importance of Each)

Creating a silky-smooth Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta starts with a few kitchen essentials. These tools don’t just make the job easier—they help guarantee the texture and flavors are spot-on.

• Large Pot: Needed for boiling the pasta evenly. A wide base helps prevent sticking and allows room for stirring.
• Cast Iron or Non-stick Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken to golden perfection without drying it out.
• Food Processor or Blender: For homemade pesto (if you’re not using store-bought). It ensures a creamy, uniform texture.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Helps handle the chicken and toss pasta without breaking the noodles.
• Microplane or Grater: Perfect for freshly grated Parmesan, which adds that final touch of umami.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Essential for stirring the sauce gently into the pasta without over-mixing.

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Preparation Tips

To make the cooking process smooth and fuss-free, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Prep all ingredients before turning on the heat. This dish comes together fast, so having everything chopped and measured in advance helps.
• Cook pasta al dente. Slightly undercooked pasta holds up better when tossed in the hot, creamy pesto.
• Rest the chicken before slicing. Letting it sit for 5–7 minutes after searing locks in the juices.
• Reserve some pasta water. A splash of starchy water makes your sauce cling better and smooths out the texture.
• Warm the pesto gently. Don’t boil it—high heat can dull the flavor and darken the vibrant green color.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life. These ingredients strike the right balance between creaminess, freshness, and hearty protein.

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
• Salted water (for boiling)

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• ¾ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish (Optional but Recommended):

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped basil or parsley
• Cracked black pepper

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub them with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit more oil if needed, then sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized strips.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In the same skillet (wipe clean if needed), lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, then stir in the pesto and Parmesan cheese. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the chicken is evenly distributed. Cook for another 2–3 minutes just to warm everything through.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the pasta into bowls and top with a fresh sprinkle of grated Parmesan and some chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

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Notes

• Homemade pesto makes a difference: If time allows, making pesto from scratch with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil enhances the depth of flavor.
• Use any pasta shape: While rotini and fusilli work great due to their ridges, penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti can be used.
• Make it lighter: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or try Greek yogurt stirred in at the end (off the heat).
• Add veggies: Toss in sautéed cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for a nutritional boost and added color.
• Store-bought pesto tip: Some jarred pestos can be salty—taste the sauce before adding more salt.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breast dries out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F and no more.
• Boiling the pesto sauce: High heat can cause pesto to lose its bright green color and fresh flavor. Simmer gently.
• Skipping pasta water: That reserved pasta water adds silkiness to the sauce and helps it stick to the pasta. Don’t forget it.
• Not resting the chicken: Cutting it immediately after cooking leads to dry pieces. Let it rest 5 minutes before slicing.
• Using cold cream straight from the fridge: It can split when added to a hot pan. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using.

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What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Pairing sides with this dish can elevate the whole meal from satisfying to spectacular. Whether you’re aiming for something fresh, crunchy, or indulgent, these options round out the flavors beautifully.

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy pesto sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze echo the basil notes in the pasta.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned with lemon and olive oil, it’s a crisp counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the pasta—add cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes for crunch.
5. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: A cheesy, roasted veggie that plays well with the Parmesan in the sauce.
6. Antipasto Platter: Olives, marinated artichokes, and cured meats add salty, savory contrasts.
7. Grilled Zucchini or Eggplant: Smoky grilled veggies that complement the Mediterranean tones in the pasta.
8. Sparkling Water with Lemon or a Crisp White Wine: For a refreshing drink pairing that cuts through the richness.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store any leftover Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it great for next-day lunches.

Reheating Tips:

• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid hot spots and clumping. Add a small spoonful of cream or water before microwaving.

Freezing: Not recommended. Cream-based sauces tend to separate and change texture when thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~620 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutrition values can vary depending on the specific brands and portions used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?

Absolutely. Store-bought pesto works well and saves time. Just be mindful of the salt level, as some brands can be quite salty.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and often juicier. Just cook them thoroughly and slice as directed.

3. What pasta shapes work best with creamy pesto?

Short, ridged shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne hold the sauce well, but spaghetti or fettuccine also work if preferred.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the chicken and try roasted veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty, meat-free version.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pasta and ensure your pesto is gluten-free. Always check the labels to be safe.

6. Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan pesto, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

7. How can I make this spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste to the sauce while it simmers.

8. What’s the best way to meal prep this?

Cook the pasta and chicken ahead, then store separately from the sauce. Combine and reheat with a splash of water or cream before serving.

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Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta blends comfort and freshness in every bite. It’s a recipe that feels special but doesn’t demand a ton of effort—making it ideal for busy nights or casual gatherings. With its silky sauce, juicy chicken, and herbal punch of pesto, this dish delivers flavor in a big way. Serve it once, and you’ll likely be asked to make it again and again.

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