Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta; 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced (about 10.5 ounces total); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional, for extra nutrition); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

kate

Update : February 26, 2026

Creamy pesto chicken pasta dish served in a bowl

why make this recipe

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a rich creamy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending too much time in the kitchen. This recipe combines the fresh flavors of basil pesto with a creamy texture that complements the chicken and pasta, making it a satisfying meal for everyone at the table.

how to make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Ingredients :

10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced (about 10.5 ounces total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional, for extra nutrition)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions so it is just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until cooked through and lightly golden, which takes about 5–6 minutes. Remove from heat.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and whole milk, then bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Mix in basil pesto and grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce is smooth and melted.
Return the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and spinach (if using) to the sauce. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Transfer the coated mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta warm, right from the oven. You can garnish it with fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

how to store Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

To store any leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.

tips to make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm as it will cook more in the oven.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

variation

For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas. Simply sauté the vegetables until tender and mix them into the creamy sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli or spaghetti.

2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

4. What if I don’t have basil pesto?
You can make your own pesto using basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and nuts, or substitute with another herb sauce if desired.