Name: Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ pound Penne pasta (about 2 ½ cups dry, half of a one pound box); 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 2 Garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons Butter; 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour; 1 cup Chicken broth; 1 cup Half and half (or substitute with milk or cream); ½ cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup Freshly shredded Mozzarella cheese; ½ cup Basil pesto (or more, to taste); Fresh basil for garnish, if desired

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

If you are craving comfort food with a vibrant twist, this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender chunks of chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy pesto sauce that hits all the right notes—whether you want something quick after a busy day or a cozy meal to share with family and friends. This dish combines the fresh, herby brightness of basil pesto with the velvety smoothness of a homemade cream sauce, making every bite an absolute delight. And the best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful dinner without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a large black pan filled with a creamy light beige sauce as the base layer. On top of the sauce, there are three distinct piles: one of white shredded cheese on the left, a dollop of thick green pesto in the middle, and a mound of finely grated pale yellow cheese at the bottom right. A black whisk lies in the sauce towards the top right corner, partly touching the green pesto. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each plays a crucial role: the penne pasta provides a perfect bite, the chicken adds protein and heartiness, while the creamy sauce and pesto bring layers of flavor and gorgeous color.

Penne pasta (½ pound): Its tube shape holds the luscious sauce wonderfully, ensuring every forkful is packed with flavor.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté garlic and chicken, it adds a subtle richness and helps develop a beautiful sear.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): Essential for that aromatic punch that warms the dish.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that gives the chicken extra depth without overpowering the pesto.
Boneless skinless chicken breast (1 pound), cut into bite-sized chunks: Tender and juicy, it’s the star protein that pairs perfectly with pasta.
Salt and pepper: To season and balance all flavors.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Used to create a rich base for the creamy sauce.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce light yet flavorful.
Half and half (1 cup): Or substitute with milk or cream to create that irresistibly velvety texture.
Freshly grated Parmesan (½ cup): Provides sharpness and umami that brightens the sauce.
Freshly shredded Mozzarella (1 cup): Adds gooey, melty goodness that makes this dish so comforting.
Basil pesto (½ cup or more to taste): The fragrant heart of the recipe with fresh basil, pine nuts, and garlic flavors.
Fresh basil for garnish: A beautiful finishing touch that adds color and a fresh herbal note.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your penne pasta until it’s perfectly al dente—firm yet tender, so it holds up beautifully when tossed in the sauce. Follow your package instructions for timing, then drain and set aside. This is the foundation of your dish, so don’t rush it.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. The aroma that fills your kitchen here is just the beginning! Add the bite-sized chicken chunks, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they’re no longer pink and have a lovely golden crust. Stir occasionally to ensure every piece is cooked evenly. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, and discard any excess liquid from the pan—this helps keep your sauce rich and creamy instead of watery.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Return the skillet to medium heat and melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to create a roux—a smooth, golden paste that will thicken your sauce beautifully. Cook this mixture for about 3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half and half, bringing it to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on it and reduce the heat if it bubbles too vigorously. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens into a luscious sauce that clings to your pasta.

Step 4: Combine Pesto and Cheeses

Remove your skillet from the heat and stir in the basil pesto along with the Parmesan and Mozzarella cheeses. Here’s a little tip to avoid clumps: add the cheese gradually, mixing well between additions so the mozzarella melts evenly into the sauce. This step builds the rich, creamy texture that makes this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe such a crowd-pleaser.

Step 5: Mix Pasta and Chicken

Finally, add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Gently fold everything together until every piece is generously coated in that dreamy sauce. At this stage, the dish starts to come alive with flavor and color.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

A white bowl holds a serving of penne pasta covered with a thick creamy green pesto sauce. On top of the pasta are three pieces of light brown grilled chicken, slightly charred with visible grill marks. The sauce is speckled with black pepper and small bits of herbs. Several small fresh green basil leaves are placed on and around the chicken pieces. A black fork rests inside the bowl, partially submerged in the pasta. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and a few cracks of black pepper on top instantly lift this dish. The fresh herb adds a vibrant burst of green that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, making every serving just as delightful to look at as to eat.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty baguette are fantastic companions, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls, topped with a basil sprig and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts over each serving to add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of nutty flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy chicken pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it ideal for quick meals during the week.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep that sauce silky smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully because it holds sauce well, you can substitute fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle depending on what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap out the dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese. Use a dairy-free butter substitute as well to keep it creamy without the dairy.

How spicy is this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe?

This recipe is mild by nature, focusing on fresh herbal flavors and creamy richness rather than heat. You can add red pepper flakes if you want a little kick.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Definitely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly here and saves time. Just adjust the amount to your taste, as some brands can be more intense than homemade versions.

What can I substitute for half and half?

If you don’t have half and half, whole milk combined with a tablespoon of cream works well, or simply use heavy cream for an even richer sauce. Just watch the sauce while it simmers to avoid curdling.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves quick, comforting meals with layers of flavor. It’s approachable enough for weeknights but special enough to serve guests. I hope you give it a try and make it a regular in your recipe rotation—you’ll be amazed at how much joy a simple, creamy pesto pasta can bring to your table!