Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta – Creamy Italian Dinner Recipe

There’s something timeless and comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta shared at the table. This Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta is one of those recipes that brings warmth to the kitchen and smiles to everyone gathered around. Inspired by rustic Italian home cooking, this dish combines tender chicken, fragrant basil pesto, and a silky cream sauce that gently coats every strand of pasta. It’s not overly fancy, yet it feels indulgent — the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable one.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance. The richness of cream is lifted by the herbal freshness of pesto, while golden-seared chicken adds heartiness and protein. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours at the stove, and it’s equally fitting for a relaxed weekend dinner with family or friends. The ingredients are simple, familiar, and easy to find, yet when combined, they create flavors that feel deeply comforting and classic.

In many Italian-inspired kitchens, meals like this are about togetherness and ease rather than perfection. This recipe honors that tradition — straightforward steps, honest ingredients, and plenty of room to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself, this creamy chicken pesto pasta is a dish that always feels like a warm hug. Let’s get cooking! 😊🍽️

🧺 Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work beautifully)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle heat)

For Garnish (Optional but Lovely)

• Fresh basil leaves 🌿
• Extra grated Parmesan 🧀

🍳 Step-by-Step Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper on all sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant — take care not to brown it.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, allowing it to warm through for 2–3 minutes.
6. Add the basil pesto and red pepper flakes, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and lightly green.
7. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce.
9. Add the drained pasta and gently toss everything together until well combined and glossy.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
11. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

🥗 Nutritional Information

This creamy chicken pesto pasta is a balanced, satisfying meal that offers protein from the chicken, energy from the pasta, and healthy fats from olive oil and pesto. Enjoyed in moderation, it fits beautifully into a comforting home-style dinner.

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 15 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 25 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~520
🍽️ Servings: 4

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩‍🍳🍽️