If you’ve been on the hunt for a dish that balances comfort with fresh flavor in every bite, look no further. The Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe brings together the tender juiciness of chicken, the aromatic punch of basil pesto, and the soothing richness of a creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly light, making it a go-to favorite whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends. Every forkful delivers a harmony of textures and tastes that feels like a celebration of simple ingredients done right.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A piece of raw pale pink chicken is placed flat on a light brown wooden cutting board. The chicken is covered with a transparent plastic wrap that is slightly wrinkled and shiny. A smooth, light wooden rolling pin lies diagonally above the chicken on the cutting board. The cutting board is set on a white marbled surface with subtle grey veins. The overall scene shows preparation for flattening the chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right components is the first step toward mastering the Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the flavor profile and texture, combining to create a dish that’s vibrant, creamy, and incredibly satisfying.

200 grams dried pasta (or 300 grams fresh): Choosing quality pasta helps carry the sauce perfectly, with fresh pasta adding extra tenderness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used twice, this healthy fat adds depth and richness to both the chicken and the sauce.
1 chicken breast: Preferably boneless and skinless for ease, it provides protein and meshes beautifully with the sauce.
1 tablespoon flour: Helps to lightly coat the chicken and gives the sauce a subtle thickness without heaviness.
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Garlic lends an aromatic kick essential to balancing the creaminess.
¾ cup single or light cream: This creates the silky, luscious base of the sauce, adaptable for lighter versions.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that dances alongside the pesto’s herbaceous notes.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice plus zest: The acidity cuts through the richness and the zest brightens every bite.
⅓ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought): The star ingredient giving the dish its signature fresh and vibrant flavor.
20 grams parmesan cheese, finely grated: A salty, nutty finish that enhances the sauce’s creaminess with umami depth.
Salt to taste: Essential for elevating all the individual ingredients and harmonizing the flavors.

How to Make Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente—tender but still with a slight bite. This ensures the pasta won’t become mushy once mixed with the sauce. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Step 2: Cook and Coat the Chicken

Take your chicken breast and pat it dry, then lightly dust it in the flour, which helps to create a subtle crust and thickens the sauce afterward. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, roughly 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once done, remove from the pan and slice into bite-sized strips.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan, add half a tablespoon of olive oil and sautée the finely chopped garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds. Pour in the single or light cream, stir in black pepper, and let it gently simmer to thicken slightly. Add the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Next, fold in the basil pesto and parmesan cheese, stirring until everything melts into a velvety, green-hued sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the sliced chicken to the pan, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is generously coated in that luxurious creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it and achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Taste and adjust salt if necessary, then sprinkle lemon zest over the top for a fragrant finishing touch.

How to Serve Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your presentation and flavor by garnishing with extra freshly grated parmesan, a few fragrant basil leaves, or a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can add a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t overpower its flavors. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted cherry tomatoes, or garlic bread are all fantastic companions. The freshness of these sides complements the richness of the pasta, creating a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, consider serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a small basil sprig on top for color contrast. Alternatively, spoon portions into hollowed-out tomatoes or zucchini boats for a stunning, playful presentation that doubles as a conversation starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pasta before storing to preserve texture and flavor.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, note that the cream sauce can sometimes separate upon thawing. If you do freeze it, portion into freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to re-emulsify the sauce. Adding a splash of cream or milk helps restore that silky texture without drying out the chicken or pasta.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While traditional shapes like penne or fusilli work great to hold the pesto sauce, feel free to experiment with spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it better to make pesto from scratch or use store-bought?

Both options are perfectly fine. Homemade pesto offers a fresher, more vibrant flavor, but high-quality store-bought pesto can save time and still deliver delicious results.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Definitely! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu can be tasty alternatives, and each will pair beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce.

How can I lighten up this pasta dish?

Use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce the amount of oil, and consider adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to boost nutrition and volume.

What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from breaking?

Keep the heat low when adding cream and pesto, and stir continuously. Adding cheese and lemon juice gradually helps maintain a smooth, creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give the Best Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that will quickly become a beloved staple. The flavors are bright yet comforting, stunning guests or satisfying a cozy night in. Once you’ve mastered it, you’ll find yourself wanting to make it again and again—just like I do! Happy cooking and even happier eating!