Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

By: John.Morgan35 | Published onFebruary 7, 2026

A Flavorful Favorite: Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

If you’re searching for a comforting, delicious pasta dish that brings the family together, look no further than creamy pesto chicken pasta. This delightful combination of tender chicken, rich cream, and vibrant basil pesto creates a meal that feels indulgent yet simple enough for any night of the week. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the smiles around the table told me I had struck culinary gold. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to gather around good food and even better company.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this creamy pesto chicken pasta. For starters, it’s a one-pan wonder that simplifies cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The flavor is incredibly rich, thanks to the combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and pesto, yet it’s balanced with the freshness of baby spinach—if you choose to include it. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring that everyone around your table will leave satisfied.

"The perfect pasta dish! Creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make. My kids beg for it!" – A happy home cook

This recipe is not just for any occasion; it shines at family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy date night at home. Its comforting nature and ease of preparation make it a standout in any recipe collection.

Preparing Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Making this creamy pesto chicken pasta is a straightforward process that can be easily followed. Here’s how it comes together in a few simple steps:

Start with the pasta: you’ll cook it just shy of al dente, which ensures it will hold up beautifully when baked.
Sauté the chicken until golden, adding a lovely depth of flavor and texture.
Create a creamy sauce with butter, garlic, cream, and pesto that’ll coat your pasta flawlessly.
Combine everything in a baking dish topped with luscious mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake until bubbly.

Now, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need!

Gather These Items

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

Feel free to swap in whole wheat pasta or add your favorite vegetables if you’re looking to customize the dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions, keeping it just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, and sauté until cooked through and lightly golden, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from heat.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and whole milk, bringing to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Mix in basil pesto and grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce is smooth and melted.
Return the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and optional spinach to the sauce. Toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

To serve your creamy pesto chicken pasta, consider garnishing with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with a light side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta, or garlic bread for a comforting touch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside your favorite seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through—adding a splash of milk or cream can help revive creaminess.

Chef’s Tips

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the oven, cooking it just under al dente allows for perfect texture.
Cheese Choices Matter: Quality cheese makes a difference. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for the best flavor.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish a day in advance up until baking; just cover it and refrigerate. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven, and you’ve got a gourmet meal with minimal effort!

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you might like:

Add Protein: Try swapping chicken for shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Spice It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce for a bit of heat.
Veggie Boost: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well; just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the package directions.
How can I make this dish lighter?
You can reduce the amount of heavy cream and use low-fat milk instead. You could also substitute part of the pasta with zucchini noodles for a veggie boost.
Is it necessary to bake the pasta?
No, if you prefer a simpler version, you can serve it right after mixing everything in the skillet. Baking gives it a delightful cheesy crust, but it’s still delicious unbaked!
What if I don’t have basil pesto?
You can easily make your own with basil, nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil, or use another nut-based sauce that you enjoy.
How long does the dish last in the fridge?
The creamy pesto chicken pasta lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking! Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
What sides go well with this recipe?
A light green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this pasta beautifully.
Can this be made dairy-free?
You could use dairy-free cream options and nutritional yeast instead of cheese to achieve a similar flavor profile.

With its creamy texture and irresistible flavors, creamy pesto chicken pasta is sure to become a go-to dish in your meal rotation. Enjoy cooking, and more importantly, enjoy sharing this delightful dish with those you love!