If you’ve been craving something that feels both indulgent and vibrant, I guarantee this Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe will hit all the right notes. Imagine perfectly al dente spaghetti lovingly coated in a luscious, velvety sauce that blends creamy half-and-half and rich Parmesan with the fresh, herbaceous punch of pesto. Tender, seasoned chicken takes center stage, adding a meaty heartiness that makes this dish utterly comforting yet bright. It’s one of those recipes that warms the soul while tasting like a little celebration on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward this delicious meal. Each element plays a vital role, from the fragrant herbs that season the chicken to the silky sauce that unites everything. These simple staples combine to create a dish bursting with flavor and inviting textures.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: The perfect pasta base that holds the creamy pesto sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken and infusing subtle fruitiness into the dish.
- 2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into ½ inch cubes: Tender bites that soak up seasoning and sauce.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, slightly peppery herby flavor to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Compliments basil, lending an earthy depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The essential seasoning to elevate every ingredient.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Creates a rich foundation for the creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to that luscious texture we love.
- 1 cup half and half: Softens the sauce with light creaminess without overpowering.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream: Provides indulgent richness and decadence.
- ⅓ cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce balanced.
- ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: The key for sharp, nutty flavor and extra creaminess.
- ½ cup pesto: Brings fresh, aromatic basil and pine nuts into every bite.
- Fresh basil, pine nuts, and extra Parmesan (optional garnishes): For beautiful presentation and an extra flavor boost.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your spaghetti according to the package’s instructions until it’s perfectly tender but still has a bit of bite. After draining, save one cup of that starchy pasta water — it’s your secret weapon later for adjusting sauce consistency and helping the sauce cling beautifully to the noodles.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss the diced chicken with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper for instant flavor that penetrates every bite. Cook the chicken in the hot pan until it’s browned and no longer pink inside – about 5 to 6 minutes. Then set it aside; don’t you worry, the chicken will rejoin the dish soon!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a roux that will thicken your sauce. Cook it gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring continuously – patience here ensures a silky texture.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the half and half, heavy cream, and chicken broth, stirring regularly as the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it sweetly thicken for a couple of minutes; this is where the magic of your creamy sauce happens. Once thickened just right, take it off the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and vibrant pesto, ensuring a smooth blend bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Toss your cooked spaghetti right into the sauce, stirring to make sure every strand is luxuriously coated. Add reserved pasta water little by little if you want it thinner or silkier — this watery magic helps emulsify the sauce. Finally, fold the cooked chicken back into the pan, letting it soak up all those incredible flavors.
Step 6: Final Touches
Whether you want to serve it straight from the pan or plate it beautifully with garnishes, this recipe is ready to shine. A sprinkle of fresh basil, some crunchy pine nuts, and an extra dusting of Parmesan can instantly elevate the dish both in taste and presentation.
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A few bright basil leaves add a fresh herbal aroma, while roasted pine nuts lend a pleasant crunch that contrasts the creamy texture. Don’t underestimate the power of an extra handful of grated Parmesan on top—it adds a sharp, nutty finish that tastes heavenly with every forkful.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderful on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also make perfect companions, perfect for mopping up every last bit of the creamy pesto sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few whole pine nuts strewn on top. A wedge of lemon on the side adds brightness that your guests can squeeze over for a zesty finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The chicken and creamy pesto sauce stay deliciously rich, but be sure to stir well before serving to redistribute the sauce.
Freezing
This pasta doesn’t freeze as well due to the cream content, which can separate and become grainy upon thawing. For best results, enjoy the Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen the sauce as it warms. Microwaving can work in a pinch but be sure to stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for the Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic here, penne, fettuccine, or bowtie pasta also work wonderfully. Just keep in mind that thicker pasta shapes may require slightly longer cooking times.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a satisfying vegetarian version of this creamy pesto pasta.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
You can try using all half and half or even a combination of milk and Greek yogurt, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy. The heavy cream gives that silky texture so use a lighter option if you prefer but expect a slightly different mouthfeel.
How long does this dish take from start to finish?
From prep to plating, this Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe takes about 40 minutes—20 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook—which is perfect for a weeknight indulgence without a fuss.
What’s the best type of pesto to use?
A high-quality store-bought basil pesto works great, but if you want to take it up a notch, homemade pesto with fresh basil, pine nuts, parmesan, garlic, and olive oil will make the dish even more vibrant and fresh tasting.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels like a hug wrapped in pasta, the Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe is a must-try. It’s creamy yet fresh, rich but balanced, and wonderfully easy to make with everyday ingredients. I can’t wait for you to taste this crowd-pleaser and discover how simple ingredients come together to create something truly nourishing and unforgettable.
Print
Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy pesto pasta features al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich and flavorful sauce made with half and half, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Tender diced chicken breasts seasoned with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper add protein and depth to the dish. Pine nuts and fresh basil garnish the pasta for a delightful finishing touch. Perfectly balanced with vibrant pesto, this dish makes for a comforting and elegant meal that can be prepared in under an hour.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti (about ⅔ package)
Chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2–3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb, diced into ½ inch cubes)
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup half and half
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ⅓ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup pesto
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
- Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
- 1–2 tablespoons pine nuts
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Season the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the heated pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through with no pink remaining. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the roux: In the same pan, add butter and flour. Stir continuously to create a smooth paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Make the creamy sauce: Gradually whisk in the half and half, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add cheese and pesto: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese and pesto until fully blended and smooth.
- Toss pasta with sauce and chicken: Add the cooked spaghetti into the pesto cream sauce and toss to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix gently to combine.
- Garnish and serve: Plate the creamy pesto pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water carefully, as it helps adjust the sauce consistency without diluting the flavor.
- Use fresh basil leaves for garnish to enhance the aroma and presentation.
- Pine nuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted or substituted if allergic.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and increase the pesto quantity or add vegetables.
- To reduce fat, substitute half and half and cream with milk and use less butter, though it will sacrifice some creaminess.
