This creamy chicken pesto pasta is a dream dinner! Tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and zesty pesto come together for a filling and tasty meal that makes everyone happy.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love how quick it comes together—perfect for busy evenings when you’d rather not fuss in the kitchen. Plus, who can resist pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I always use penne for its fun shape that holds sauce well. You can swap it with fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to. You can also use thighs for a richer flavor or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick meal. Just adjust cooking time accordingly!
Pesto: Store-bought basil pesto is super convenient. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, making your own with fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and cheese is great. You could also use sun-dried tomato pesto for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, but be cautious with the heat to prevent curdling. Coconut cream can be a good dairy-free option too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition. If you don’t have it, kale or any leafy greens would work just as well. Frozen spinach can be used, just make sure to thaw and drain it first.
How Do I Create a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Making the perfect creamy sauce is all about the technique! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a medium-low heat after sautéing garlic. This prevents the cream from boiling, which can cause curdling.
- Gradually stir in the heavy cream, and keep stirring until it’s well mixed with the garlic and oil.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes before adding pesto. This allows flavors to meld without risk.
- Stir in cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce before adding other ingredients.
And remember, always taste and adjust seasonings for the best results!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For The Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Sauce:
- 3/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 6 cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken pesto pasta will take about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and then another 10-15 minutes to whip up the creamy sauce and combine everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Brown the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Lower the heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, then add the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir everything together until the spinach starts to wilt and the tomatoes soften a bit, which should take about 2 minutes.
5. Mix in the Pasta:
Now it’s time for the star of the show! Toss the drained penne pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce, chicken, and veggies. Gently stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce. Give it a taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve it Up:
Serve your creamy chicken pesto pasta hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your delightful and creamy meal!
Bon Appétit! Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken pesto pasta! 🍝
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Regular Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds a nutty flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may cook a bit longer than regular penne.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just keep the heat low to avoid curdling if you use yogurt, and stir gently until creamy.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Certainly! You can omit the chicken entirely and add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Consider using tofu or chickpeas for added protein!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
