Easy Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta: A Quick & Delicious Weeknight Meal 🍝🌿✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a chicken pesto pasta recipe that combines rich flavors with minimal effort, you’ve come to the right place. This easy pesto chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a creamy, savory sauce infused with fresh basil and fragrant garlic. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this weeknight chicken pasta recipe promises to satisfy your taste buds and impress your family or guests. Discover how to prepare this creamy pesto chicken dish that is both quick to make and bursting with flavor. Not only is it flavorful, but it’s also incredibly versatile — you can add your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra nutrition. Want to elevate this dish? Consider pairing it with a crisp side salad or some homemade garlic bread for a complete meal.

2. Ingredients for the Best Chicken Pesto Pasta

2 cups cooked pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Preparation of Easy Pesto Chicken Pasta

3.1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. For quick prep, use quality pasta like Cuisinart Nonstick Pots and Pans.

3.2. Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. For a handy tool to chop or prepare ingredients, consider a Fullstar Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer.

3.3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the basil pesto, mixing thoroughly to create a flavorful, creamy sauce. For high-performance blending, a Ninja Blender works great to prepare fresh pesto or other ingredients.

3.4. Combine and Finish

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat with the pesto cream sauce. Then, incorporate the cooked pasta, tossing everything together evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a touch of cheese, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese like KitchenAid Classic Series Stand Mixer to grate cheese easily at home.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if necessary to restore creaminess. For easy storage, consider using Glass Storage Containers. This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month, but note that creamy sauces may change texture upon freezing. To keep your leftovers tasting fresh, try freezing in smaller portions.

5. Perfect Serving Suggestions for Weeknight Chicken Pasta

This easy pesto chicken dish is versatile and pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and extra basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. Check out more recipes for complementary dishes to serve alongside this pasta.

6. Tips for Making the Best Chicken Pesto Pasta

Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor—homemade or quality store-bought. To make your own pesto, consider this King Arthur Baking Company Big Book of Bread for more flavorful recipes.
Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy after combining with the sauce.
Adjust the cream and pesto quantities depending on how creamy and flavorful you like your dish.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pesto Pasta

What is the best pasta for pesto chicken?

Hearty pasta varieties like penne, fettuccine, or fusilli work best as they hold the creamy pesto sauce well and provide a satisfying bite. Consider using Ninja DCT451 Smart Double Oven to prepare any side dishes or bread for serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Keep the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture. For quick meal prep, store ingredients in Glass Storage Containers.

Is creamy pesto chicken healthy?

This dish is delicious and satisfying, but it is best enjoyed in moderation due to the heavy cream. For a healthier version, substitute cream with Greek yogurt or lighten the sauce. Consider adding sautéed vegetables or spinach for extra nutritional value.

8. Final Thoughts on Making Easy Pesto Chicken Pasta

This chicken pesto pasta is a perfect example of a quick, crowd-pleasing, weeknight meal that combines simplicity with rich, flavorful ingredients. By following this straightforward recipe, you will enjoy a creamy, herb-infused pasta that comes together in just minutes. Impress your family or guests with this delightful dish, and cherish how easy it is to make a restaurant-quality meal at home. For additional inspiration, browse the comprehensive recipe collection.

9. Conclusion

In summary, this easy pesto chicken recipe is a flavorful, creamy chicken pesto pasta dish that is ideal for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can prepare an impressive meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Keep this recipe handy for when you need a fast, delicious, and satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Enjoy your homemade, creamy pesto chicken pasta and make it a weekly favorite!

Easy Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta: A Quick & Delicious Weeknight Meal