If you are craving something that feels like a hug on a plate, this Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and the fresh, herby punch of basil pesto, all tossed with creamy parmesan for that irresistible finish. Fast enough for busy weeknights but fancy enough to impress any guest, this dish is truly a gem that combines simplicity with bold flavors in one satisfying bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven small white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, the first bowl contains light pink shrimp, the next bowl to the right holds dry yellow spiral pasta. To the far right in the top row, there is a bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves. Below the pasta bowl, there is a small bowl with white minced garlic. The middle bowl in the second row holds creamy yellow sauce. To the right of that, there is a bowl filled with green pesto sauce. The bottom right white bowl contains bright red cherry tomatoes cut in halves. The bowls and their contents create a neat and colorful layout. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key, but don’t worry — this Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe calls for simple, straightforward components that work wonderfully together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the springy pasta that carries every delicious bite to the vibrant basil pesto that sings freshness.

12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie): Choose your favorite shape to catch all that lovely sauce.
Salt, for pasta water: Enhances the pasta’s natural taste right from the start.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Tender chunks that make the dish hearty and protein-packed.
1 tsp salt: Balances and highlights the flavors in the chicken.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
½ tsp garlic powder: Brings a subtle hint of savory depth.
1 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection and keeping it juicy.
¾ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade): The star ingredient, bursting with fresh basil and pine nut goodness.
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional): If you want your sauce creamy and luscious.
½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty richness that ties it all together.
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional): Adds a pop of color and a sweet, fresh bite.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid is magic when it comes to helping the sauce cling to every noodle perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, dice your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. These simple seasonings bring out the best flavor in the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful every time.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes so it can develop a beautiful golden crust. Stir occasionally and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and slightly crisp on the edges.

Step 4: Add the Pesto and Optional Cream

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the basil pesto. If you love a richer, creamier sauce, now’s the time to pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let everything simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld while the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some of the reserved pasta water a bit at a time to loosen it until it coats the pasta just right. This step ensures that every bowl is dressed in glossy, flavorful sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Tomatoes

Turn off the heat and gently stir in the grated parmesan cheese and halved cherry tomatoes if using. The cheese adds that wonderful savory edge, while the tomatoes bring brightness and a fresh burst of color. Serve immediately for the best experience.

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

A white bowl filled with penne pasta and pieces of cooked chicken, all coated in a creamy green pesto sauce with small specks of black pepper visible on top. The pasta and chicken pieces are mixed closely together, with the light green sauce giving a smooth, slightly chunky texture. A small sprig of fresh green basil sits on top in the center as a garnish. A silver fork rests inside the bowl on the left side, slightly under some pasta. The bowl is placed on a wooden board with a black and white textured cloth on the top right corner. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes take this dish to the next level, so consider sprinkling with extra parmesan, a few torn basil leaves, or freshly cracked black pepper. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add a beautiful sheen and depth of flavor, making every bite feel special.

Side Dishes

This pesto chicken pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce — because let’s be honest, that pesto goodness deserves to be savored.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve the pesto chicken pasta in colorful bowls or twirl the pasta elegantly onto plates for a restaurant-style touch. Adding a few cherry tomatoes on top or some toasted pine nuts sprinkles not only boosts texture but also makes the presentation inviting and vibrant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pesto chicken pasta keeps really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it just as delicious, if not more, on day two. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the pesto chicken pasta if needed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. This helps prevent drying out while keeping everything creamy and luscious, just like the first time around.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, bowtie, or even fusilli work great because they hold the pesto sauce well. Feel free to use your favorite shape or what you have on hand.

Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?

Both have their merits! Homemade pesto offers freshness and can be customized, but a good-quality store-bought pesto is a convenient and tasty shortcut that still shines in this recipe.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to keep it hearty and flavorful without the meat.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half works well, or you can skip the cream entirely for a more traditional pesto pasta feel. Greek yogurt can also be stirred in off the heat for tang and creaminess.

How can I add more veggies to this dish?

Great question! Adding steamed broccoli, fresh spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes either during the cooking process or as a garnish boosts nutrition and texture while complementing the flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a well-made Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe that feels both fresh and indulgent at the same time. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe delivers every time. I encourage you to give it a try — your taste buds will thank you and you might just find your new favorite go-to pasta dish.