Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta: A Comforting Delight for Any Occasion

When I think of family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, one dish always comes to mind: Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta. This dish captures the essence of comfort food with its creamy, rich sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender chicken. I remember the first time I made it, trying to impress my friends with something special. They couldn’t get enough of it! Not only is it delicious, but it also comes together so easily that even novice cooks can whip it up confidently. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe?

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta offers several reasons to jump into the kitchen and start cooking. Firstly, the taste is absolutely divine. The combination of creamy sauce with fresh basil pesto creates a flavorful masterpiece that your taste buds will adore.

It’s also a quick recipe, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something scrumptious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. In under an hour, you can have a delightful meal that makes you feel like a gourmet chef!

If you’re keeping an eye on your budget, this dish fits the bill perfectly. The ingredients are affordable, and you can easily adjust quantities to suit your needs. Plus, kids love it! The creamy, cheesy goodness covers vegetables like spinach, making it a sneaky way to get nutrients into your little ones.

This recipe is also beginner-friendly, so if you’re still mastering your cooking skills, you’ll find that the directions are straightforward and easy to follow. Plus, it’s customizable, meaning you can make it your own in no time!

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Making this pasta dish is a breeze! Overall, it takes about 40-50 minutes, including prep and cooking time. You won’t need any fancy tools; a large pot and a skillet are all you really need. The best part? The straightforward steps make it almost impossible to mess up.

Now, let’s get cooking! Here are the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients

10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced (about 10.5 ounces total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional, for extra nutrition)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Directions

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the cooking process.

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, your oven will be hot and ready when it’s time to bake.
Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add in the penne or rigatoni pasta and cook it for 2 minutes less than the package directions to ensure it’s just under al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté it in the hot skillet until it’s cooked through and lightly golden, which takes about 5–6 minutes. Once done, remove it from heat and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Now, stir in the heavy cream and whole milk. Bring it to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Mix in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
Combine: Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta into the skillet along with spinach (if using). Toss everything thoroughly until each ingredient is evenly coated in that delicious sauce.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the coated mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to let everything settle.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Once your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is ready, you’ll want to serve it hot and fresh. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or some crusty garlic bread. Consider garnishing it with fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese to add a touch of elegance.

You can even add a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious addition to your meal. This dish is satisfying on its own but complementing it with these sides elevates the dining experience!

How to Store Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers (which might be rare), storing Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is simple.

In the Fridge: Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave until warmed through or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking it just under al dente ensures that it won’t become mushy when you bake it.
Use Fresh Ingredients: If you can, use freshly made pesto for a vibrant flavor. If not, store-bought is a great alternative!
Experiment with Cheese: Try mixing in other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Avoid Soggy Spinach: If you’re adding spinach, keep it minimal and don’t overcrowd the dish to prevent excess moisture.
Adjust the Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before mixing in the pasta. You might want to add a little more salt or pepper depending on your preference.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Make it Healthier: Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or a gluten-free alternative. You can also use low-fat dairy products to lighten it up.
Different Flavors: Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist, or use roasted red peppers for added depth.

FAQs about Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it if you want to reduce the calories.

What if I don’t have basil pesto?
You can make your own by blending fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), and Parmesan cheese. You can also try other pestos such as sun-dried tomato, which gives a unique flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should be golden and no longer pink in the center.

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and information you need, you’re ready to create your own Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta masterpiece. Dig in and enjoy!

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta