Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
Description:
Pesto Chicken Pasta is a creamy, savory, and aromatic dish made with tender chicken breast, pasta, and a flavorful basil pesto sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines protein, carbs, and healthy fats in one dish. Additions like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes can take this dish up a notch.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients: (Serves 4)
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
2 chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g), cut into bite-size pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to tast
1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves garlic, minced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
2 cups baby spinach (optional)
Pesto Sauce:
½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade, see below)
¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for a creamier sauce)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Homemade Basil Pesto (optional):
2 cups fresh basil leaves
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
2 garlic cloves
½ cup olive oil
½ cup Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Sauté for 6–8 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium.
Add pesto, cream (if using), and Parmesan cheese.
Stir until combined and warmed through.
Add reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed to thin the sauce.
4. Combine:
Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet.
Toss to coat everything evenly.
Add cherry tomatoes and spinach (if using) and stir just until spinach wilts.
5. Serve:
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~550 kcal
Protein 35g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fat 28g
Saturated Fat 7g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 3g
Sodium 520mg
Note: Values vary depending on exact ingredients used (especially pesto and cream).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?
Yes! Just shred or dice and add in during the final step when combining everything.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free pesto and omit the Parmesan/cream or use plant-based alternatives.
Short pasta like penne, rotini, fusilli, or farfalle hold the sauce well. But spaghetti or linguine also work fine.
Can I make it ahead?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
Can I freeze Pesto Chicken Pasta?
Not recommended due to the basil and dairy in pesto—freezing can affect the texture and color. However, cooked chicken and plain pesto sauce freeze well separately.