Nothing beats a bowl of Chicken Pesto Pasta when you crave a dinner that's both comforting and bursting with flavor! Each bite is packed with juicy, golden chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and the bold herbal punch of basil pesto wrapped in a creamy, cheesy sauce.

I absolutely adore this dish because it comes together in less than an hour-ideal for hectic weeknights but impressive enough for a cozy dinner with friends. The layers of savory goodness mingling with fresh basil make it utterly irresistible!

Inspired by a favorite Italian trattoria, this recipe became my go-to way to use up extra basil in the summer. It's wholesome, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a new staple in your rotation.

Chicken Pesto Pasta in a white bowl, topped with fresh basil and parmesan

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
Packed with fresh herbal flavor and juicy chicken
Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
Easily customizable for gluten-free or vegetarian diets

Key Ingredients for Chicken Pesto Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is the star protein of this dish, providing lean, tender bites that soak up the delicious pesto sauce. For the juiciest texture, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook just until golden and cooked through. You can substitute chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor, or even use rotisserie chicken to save time.

Basil Pesto

This vibrant sauce is what gives the dish its signature aroma and flavor. Fresh homemade pesto is unbeatable, but good-quality store-bought pesto works beautifully in a pinch. Swap in arugula or spinach pesto for a twist, or use a nut-free version if needed.

Pasta

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle are perfect for capturing the creamy pesto sauce in every bite. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives-just adjust cooking time as needed for your chosen variety.

Parmesan Cheese

A generous shower of Parmesan adds creamy richness and depth to the sauce. Grate fresh for best results. If you're dairy-free, nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan replacement will also bring a cheesy, umami kick.

Cherry Tomatoes

These bring a burst of sweetness and brightness to balance the savory flavors. If cherry tomatoes aren't available, sun-dried tomatoes add a deeper, tangy note, or you can skip them altogether for a simpler version.

Instructions for Chicken Pesto Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until just al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with ½ teaspoon salt and the black pepper. Add to the pan in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Cook the Tomatoes and Garlic

In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and blister. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until combined. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silky texture.

Combine Everything

Return the chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the creamy pesto sauce. Taste and season with the remaining salt or extra Parmesan, if needed.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer to bowls or plates. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Make It Lighter

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt to lighten up the sauce without sacrificing creaminess. You'll still get a velvety texture with a little less richness.

Vegetarian Twist

Skip the chicken and toss in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli instead. Your pasta will still be big on flavor and just as satisfying!

Gluten-Free Option

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep things safe for gluten sensitivities. Be sure to check your pesto label too, as not all brands are gluten-free.

Dairy-Free Adaptation

Use coconut cream or an unsweetened non-dairy creamer in place of heavy cream and a plant-based Parmesan alternative. Check that your pesto is also dairy-free (many store-bought versions contain cheese).

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair Chicken Pesto Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. Warm garlic bread or crusty baguette is perfect for swiping up extra sauce, and a scattering of toasted pine nuts on top adds a touch of crunch and elegance.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce as needed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 2 months-just note that the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pesto Pasta (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes! Chicken thighs work well for a richer, juicier bite, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.

Q: Can I make Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?

A: Absolutely. Prepare all components up to a day in advance and store separately. Combine and reheat just before serving for best results.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh basil pesto?

A: Store-bought pesto is a fantastic shortcut, but you can also make a quick homemade version with basil, spinach, or arugula from your fridge.

Chicken Pesto Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight dinner-fast, flavorful, and full of vibrant, fresh taste. Give it a try this week, and don't forget to leave a comment or rating to let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!