This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a one pot comfort meal that saves busy evenings and quietly becomes the dish everyone asks for again and again and it comes together fast while feeling indulgent and warm and familiar.

Before turning to delivery let me show how simple it feels to build this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta at home because pasta nights like this feel generous and satisfying and once you try it you may find it slipping easily into your weekly routine.

Ingredients

Chicken breast: Lean tender protein that soaks up seasoning and pesto flavor beautifully.

Penne pasta: Tubular pasta that holds the creamy sauce inside every bite.
Basil pesto: The heart of the dish adding herbaceous richness and depth.
Heavy cream: Creates that smooth luxurious sauce texture.
Garlic: Adds warmth and savory aroma to the base.
Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and carry flavors evenly.
Parmesan cheese: Brings salty nutty balance to the sauce.
Salt: Enhances every layer of flavor.
Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and contrast.
Red pepper flakes: Optional touch for subtle spice.
Fresh basil: Bright finishing note for freshness.

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot: Used for cooking the pasta evenly until tender.
Heavy skillet or Dutch oven: Perfect for searing chicken and building the sauce.
Wooden spoon: Helps stir gently without scratching cookware.
Colander: Drains pasta while keeping texture intact.
Knife: For cleanly cutting chicken pieces.
Cutting board: Keeps prep organized and safe.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and I cook the penne until just al dente because it will finish cooking in the sauce later and I drain it while reserving a little pasta water for flexibility.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

I cut the chicken into bite sized pieces then season it generously with salt and black pepper making sure every piece is coated evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

I heat olive oil in my skillet over medium heat then add the chicken in a single layer and let it cook undisturbed until golden on one side before turning because this builds flavor and keeps it juicy and once cooked I remove it briefly.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same pan I add garlic and let it soften gently then stir in the pesto and cream letting everything warm together slowly while scraping up the flavorful bits from the pan.

Step 5: Combine Everything

I return the chicken to the skillet then add the cooked pasta and toss everything together gently adding a splash of pasta water if needed until the sauce coats every piece evenly.

Step 6: Finish and Taste

I finish with grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes then taste and adjust seasoning until it feels just right before serving warm.

Tips

When I want extra depth I lightly toast the pesto in the pan before adding cream which intensifies the herbal flavor and if the sauce thickens too much I loosen it with reserved pasta water rather than more cream to keep it balanced and I always grate Parmesan fresh because it melts smoother and tastes cleaner in the sauce.

Ways to Serve

I love serving this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta straight from the pot with fresh basil scattered over the top and extra Parmesan at the table and it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or simple garlic bread and for gatherings I sometimes transfer it to a wide serving bowl so everyone can help themselves easily.

Storage Instructions

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it keeps well for up to three days and when reheating I add a small splash of milk or water and warm it gently on the stove or microwave to bring the sauce back to its creamy texture without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes you can prepare it earlier and reheat gently with added liquid to maintain creaminess.

What pasta works best for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta?

I prefer penne but rigatoni or fusilli also hold the sauce very well.

Can Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta be made lighter?

You can swap part of the cream for milk or use a lighter cream while keeping good flavor.

Is Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta freezer friendly?

It can be frozen but the sauce texture is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta a try because it is comforting easy and full of flavor and I would love to hear how it turns out for you so save it and come back to it whenever pasta cravings hit.

Happy Cooking!