Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta

ByUsman

If you love pasta dinners that are both flavorful and easy to make, this Chicken Pesto Pasta is the perfect choice. Tender chicken, garlic, and penne are tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce with fresh pesto. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep.

The best part is how versatile it is you can use store-bought pesto for convenience or homemade pesto for an extra fresh touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz each), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 ¾ cups water
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 oz Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about ½ cup)
  • ⅔ cup store-bought or homemade pesto
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 4–5 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  3. Add water, cream, and salt. Bring to a simmer, then stir in penne pasta. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.
  4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and return the chicken to the skillet. Toss until chicken is warmed and cheese is melted.
  5. Remove from heat, fold in pesto, and mix until creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the perfect consistency.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving, if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken Pesto Pasta is not just quick—it’s packed with flavor and balanced nutrition.

  • Chicken adds lean protein to make the dish filling.
  • Parmesan and cream create a velvety sauce that coats every bite.
  • Pesto adds freshness, garlic, and herby notes that brighten the pasta.
  • It’s a one-pan recipe, so cleanup is simple and stress-free.

Tips for the Best Chicken Pesto Pasta

  • Use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for better flavor and creaminess.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be tender but still slightly firm.
  • Make it lighter by swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
  • Add veggies like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
  • Meal prep friendly—leftovers taste even better the next day.

What to Serve with Chicken Pesto Pasta

This creamy pasta is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with:

  • A side salad with balsamic dressing
  • Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
  • Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus

Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. With juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich pesto-Parmesan sauce, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite.

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