Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy pasta dishes that combine the richness of chicken with the vibrant flavor of pesto. In this collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes, we’ll take you on a culinary journey that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
From classic combinations to innovative twists, these recipes showcase the versatility of chicken, pesto, and pasta in perfect harmony. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with our carefully curated selection of creamy chicken pesto pasta delights.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each recipe, exploring the unique flavor profiles and cooking techniques that make them stand out from the crowd. From the comfort of your own kitchen to the thrill of experimentation, get ready to unleash your inner chef and create some unforgettable dishes with these 20 creamy chicken pesto pasta recipes.
Classic Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of creamy pesto sauce, succulent chicken, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes to create a satisfying and flavorful pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add pesto sauce to the same skillet and stir to combine with any remaining chicken juices.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken in the skillet. Toss to coat with pesto sauce and tomato mixture.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Chili Flakes
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic pesto pasta, this recipe combines the bold flavors of chili flakes, chicken, and basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp. pesto sauce
– 1 tsp. chili flakes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chili flakes to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, flavorful garlic butter sauce, and a hint of pesto make for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and chicken in a serving dish. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Alfredo Chicken Pesto Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken, pesto, and alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Pesto Pasta
Brighten up your dinner with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of lemon, the richness of pesto, and the juiciness of chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 8 ounces pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, lemon juice, and pesto to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the creaminess of pesto with the goodness of chicken, spinach, and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. penne pasta
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken-spinach mixture, and pesto sauce. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato Chicken Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Roasted cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness, while chicken and pesto bring creamy richness.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss chicken with 2 tbsp. olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Roast cherry tomatoes with garlic, remaining olive oil, and a pinch of salt for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted cherry tomatoes, chicken, and pesto sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Basil Pesto Pasta
A classic combination of flavors and textures comes together in this easy-to-make recipe. Grilled chicken, tender pasta, and a rich basil pesto sauce make for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing into thin strips.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a food processor, blend basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
5. Toss cooked pasta with basil pesto sauce and top with grilled chicken slices.
Cooking Time:
– Grill time: 10-12 minutes
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Chicken Pesto Pasta
This recipe is a healthier twist on traditional pasta dishes, using zucchini noodles instead of traditional spaghetti. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and flavorful herbs makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook chicken breast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Slice cooked chicken breast into strips and add to the skillet with the pesto sauce mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss everything together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Pesto Pasta Casserole
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful casserole, packed with tender chicken, rich pesto sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add pesto and stir to combine with remaining juices. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked pasta, chicken-pesto mixture, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, and pesto for a delightful summer treat. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, it’s also great as a side dish or potluck contribution.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, pesto sauce, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle with feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cajun Spiced Chicken Pesto Pasta
A flavorful fusion of spicy Cajun seasoning and rich pesto sauce, this recipe combines the bold flavors of chicken, pasta, and spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning and salt.
3. Season chicken breast with the Cajun mixture, coating evenly.
4. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, cook chicken breast for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Add pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and pesto mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Chicken Pesto Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and pesto sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful and comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and mushrooms in olive oil until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, pesto sauce, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken and mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
One-Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta with Broccoli
Elevate your pasta game with this quick and flavorful one-pot dish, featuring chicken, pesto sauce, and steamed broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the pasta, chicken, and olive oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and broccoli. Reduce heat to low; simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Pine Nuts
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of creamy pesto sauce, juicy chicken, and crunchy pine nuts with al dente pasta. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see note)
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add pine nuts and toast for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Add pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the toasted pine nuts. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with the pesto sauce mixture.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken and pesto sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Pesto Pasta
A sweet and savory twist on classic pasta, this dish combines the richness of balsamic glaze with the brightness of pesto and the tender flavor of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto and balsamic glaze. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add roasted chicken to the skillet and toss with pesto mixture until coated.
6. Combine cooked pasta with chicken and pesto sauce. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Artichoke Hearts
This recipe combines the flavors of creamy pesto sauce, juicy chicken, and tender artichoke hearts with al dente pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and garlic over medium-high heat until chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in pesto sauce and artichoke hearts; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
A creamy and flavorful pasta salad that combines the richness of avocado with the savory taste of chicken and pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, diced avocado, pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, all wrapped up with juicy chicken breast. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Roast red bell peppers in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered. Peel off skin, slice into strips, and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta, roasted chicken, and roasted red pepper strips. Toss with pesto sauce to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, and mozzarella cheese. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet with the tomatoes, and stir in the pesto sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken and tomato mixture.
6. Top with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan (if using).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food – creamy chicken pesto pasta! This article features 20 mouthwatering recipes that combine the richness of cream, the zest of pesto, and the tenderness of chicken. From classic combinations like sun-dried tomatoes and garlic butter, to bold twists with spicy chili flakes and roasted cherry tomatoes, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick one-pot wonder or a decadent casserole, these recipes are sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
