Chicken Pesto Pasta: A Quick and Flavorful Meal

There’s nothing better than a delicious homemade meal that comes together quickly, and Chicken Pesto Pasta is just that!

With its creamy pesto sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a weeknight favorite that tastes like something from a fancy restaurant.

I love how versatile this recipe is—you can enjoy it warm for a cozy dinner or have it cold as a refreshing pasta salad. Plus, it’s perfect for any season!

In the summer, fresh basil pesto adds a bright, herby flavor, and in the colder months, the creamy sauce makes it extra comforting.

This meal is also great when you’re short on time but still want something that feels special. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself, this Chicken Pesto Pasta will not disappoint!

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Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and easy – This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with flavor – The mix of garlicky pesto, juicy chicken, and Parmesan cheese makes every bite delicious.
• Versatile – You can use any pasta you like, swap the chicken for shrimp, or even make it vegetarian by skipping the meat.
• Meal-prep friendly – It stores well in the fridge, making it great for leftovers.
• Healthy and satisfying – With protein-rich chicken and nutrient-packed pesto, this is a meal that’s both filling and nutritious.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Chicken Pesto Pasta:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (about 3 cups) pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work best)
• 2 teaspoons salt (for boiling water)

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Pesto Sauce

• ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup heavy cream (for a creamy version)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra freshness)

For Garnish (Optional but Recommended!)

• ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before we start cooking, make sure you have these kitchen tools ready:

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Cutting board and knife – for cutting the chicken and any optional garnishes
• Large skillet or pan – for cooking the chicken and mixing everything together
• Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right ingredient amounts

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Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water, add 2 teaspoons of salt, and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but not too soft).
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add ½ cup of basil pesto and ½ cup of heavy cream (if using). Stir well.
2. Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the pesto sauce.
2. Stir everything together until well coated.
3. If desired, squeeze in 1 teaspoon of lemon juice for extra freshness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the pasta and top with cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and extra Parmesan cheese.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a restaurant-style touch.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Salt the pasta water – This helps flavor the pasta from the inside.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce.
• Use fresh pesto if possible – Homemade pesto gives the best flavor, but a good-quality store-bought version works great too.
• Save the pasta water – A little starchy water helps make the sauce extra smooth and creamy.
• Make it healthier – Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or skip it for a lighter dish.
• Add veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition.
• Use different proteins – Try shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken for variety.
• Store leftovers properly – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

This Chicken Pesto Pasta is the perfect go-to meal—quick, easy, and full of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Pesto Pasta is how flexible it is! Here are some great substitutions and variations:

Pasta Alternatives:

• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta like brown rice or chickpea pasta.
• Low-carb? Swap pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash.
• Different pasta shapes? Try bowtie, fusilli, or rigatoni instead of penne.

Protein Swaps:

• Vegetarian? Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas.
• Seafood option? Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a fresh twist.
• Extra protein? Stir in crispy bacon or shredded rotisserie chicken.

Dairy-Free Options:

• Use dairy-free pesto (made with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan).
• Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream.
• Use vegan Parmesan or skip the cheese altogether.

Pesto Variations:

• Nut-free? Make pesto with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of pine nuts.
• Different greens? Use spinach, arugula, or kale instead of basil.
• Extra creamy? Add a spoonful of ricotta or cream cheese.

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Serving Suggestions

This pasta is delicious on its own, but you can make it a full meal with these sides:

Salads:

• Classic Caesar salad – Crisp romaine with a creamy dressing.
• Caprese salad – Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil with balsamic glaze.
• Spinach and arugula salad – Tossed with lemon vinaigrette and toasted nuts.

Breads:

• Garlic bread – A crispy, buttery side to soak up the extra sauce.
• Focaccia – Italian flatbread with herbs and olive oil.
• Cheesy breadsticks – Warm and cheesy for extra indulgence.

Drinks:

• Lemonade or iced tea – Refreshing and light.
• White wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly.
• Sparkling water with lemon – Simple and refreshing.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

• Let the pasta cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months (best without cream).

Reheating Tips:

• Stovetop (best option): Heat a pan over medium-low heat and add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until warm. Add a little water if needed.
• Oven: Bake in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

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FAQ

1. Can I make Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the pasta and chicken in advance, then mix everything together when ready to serve. If making it fully ahead, store the sauce separately and combine just before eating.

2. Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! A good-quality store-bought pesto works great, but homemade pesto will always have a fresher taste.

3. How do I prevent my pesto from turning brown?

If making homemade pesto, add a little lemon juice to keep it bright green. Also, store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use Greek yogurt, coconut milk, or cream cheese for a creamy texture without heavy cream.

5. Can I serve this pasta cold?

Yes! It makes a delicious cold pasta salad. Just skip the heavy cream for a lighter, fresher dish.

6. How do I make this meal healthier?

Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta, swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt, and add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.

This Chicken Pesto Pasta is an easy, flavorful dish that works for any occasion. Try it out and let me know your favorite way to enjoy it!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!