Go Back

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

This creamy pasta combines bright basil pesto and tender chicken, topped with gooey cheese, making it a perfect cozy dinner for the whole family.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced (about 10.5 ounces total)

Pasta

  • 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta

Fats & Aromatics

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Sauce

  • 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

Veggies (optional)

  • 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional, for extra nutrition)

Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions, ensuring it is just under al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cooking

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then 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, then bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Mix in basil pesto and grated Parmesan, stirring until smooth and melted.
  • Return cooked chicken, drained pasta, and spinach (if using) to the sauce. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  • Transfer the coated mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
  • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  • Allow dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta: drain it just under al dente so it finishes perfectly in the oven. Taste and adjust salt: pesto and Parmesan are salty, so season after mixing the sauce. Use room-temperature dairy for smoother blending.
Keyword Chicken, Comfort Food, Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, Pasta, Weeknight Dinner