Name: Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 8 ounces penne pasta, preferably with ridges; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, plus more for serving if you like; 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, drained if packed in oil; 1/2 cup basil pesto, homemade or quality store-bought, plus more if you like; 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Handful of torn basil leaves, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 4 reviews

If you are looking for a luscious, vibrant, and deeply satisfying pasta dish, this Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together juicy, tender chicken pieces, creamy sauce, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and the fresh, herbaceous punch of basil pesto that turns every bite into a celebration of flavor and texture. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner to impress, this recipe has you covered with its perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular plate sits in the center with three raw, pale pink chicken pieces placed side by side. Above the plate, from left to right, there is a small white bowl with dried herbs, a small wood bowl with salt, a wedge of pale yellow cheese, a small white spoon with red chili flakes, and a black bowl filled with yellow uncooked penne pasta. To the right of the chicken plate, a small clear glass bowl holds dark brown sun-dried tomatoes. On the left side, there is a larger clear glass bowl with green pesto at the bottom, a smaller glass bowl above with golden olive oil, and a white cup filled with cream. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered between the creamy cup and crispy dried herbs. All items are set on a smooth white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first delightful step in making this Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe. Each component plays a key role — from the succulent chicken to the creamy parmesan and the bright green pesto — creating a dish that sings with authentic Italian charm.

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces to ensure quick and even cooking with juicy bites every time.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend adds warmth and a classic herbaceous base to season the chicken perfectly.
Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor layer from the pasta to the chicken.
Black pepper: Adds just the right touch of mild heat and complexity throughout the dish.
8 ounces penne pasta: Preferably with ridges to hold onto that luscious pesto sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Used to cook the chicken, adding richness and a subtle fruity undertone.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the delightfully creamy texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
1/4 cup parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and enhances the dish’s savory personality.
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Introduces a chewy, slightly sweet acidity that brightens the whole meal.
1/2 cup basil pesto: Whether homemade or store-bought, it infuses the recipe with fresh, herbal magic.
1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives a gentle spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds wonderfully.
Handful of torn basil leaves: Used as garnish, they provide a burst of color and fresh fragrance to finish the dish.

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

To start, toss the chicken pieces in a bowl with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning sets the foundation for flavorful, juicy chicken that will carry the dish beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente, usually 8 to 9 minutes. Salting the water generously is a key step to infuse the pasta itself with flavor, making every bite tasty and satisfying.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook it, tossing occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes. This creates a wonderful texture contrast with crispy edges and moist centers.

Step 4: Drain the Pasta

Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water and drain the rest. This starchy water is a fantastic tool for loosening the sauce and creating a silky finish later.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Reduce the heat under the chicken pan to low and stir in the cooked pasta, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix everything gently and add pasta water a little at a time if the mixture seems dry. The goal is a glossy, creamy sauce that evenly coats every noodle.

Step 6: Add the Pesto

Remove the pan from heat and fold in the vibrant, green basil pesto. The residual heat will bring out the bright flavors without cooking away the fresh herbal notes. Finish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, extra parmesan if desired, and torn basil leaves to create an irresistible final touch.

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

A white pot filled with creamy pasta that has three layers: at the bottom is coated penne pasta with a green pesto sauce, the middle layer has light brown, cooked chicken pieces scattered throughout, and the top layer is sprinkled with white grated cheese and red chili flakes, with fresh green basil leaves placed on top for decoration. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, and nearby there is a small white bowl filled with shredded cheese and a block of yellow cheese with fresh basil leaves beside it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding torn fresh basil leaves and an extra dusting of parmesan cheese not only boosts flavor but also elevates the presentation with a bright, fresh look. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds visual contrast while teasing your palate with a gentle warmth.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe pairs excellently with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic roasted vegetables. The freshness and slight acidity of these sides balance the creamy richness of the pasta wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow factor, try serving the pasta in individual bowls garnished with edible flowers or serve it in small ramekins topped with a pinch of toasted pine nuts. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds a silky sheen and a luxurious touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pesto sauce vibrant by adding a small splash of olive oil on top before sealing.

Freezing

While the pasta tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers by sealing them tightly in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, as freezing can slightly alter the texture of the cream sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of water or extra cream will restore the sauce’s creamy texture and keep the pasta from drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible, to maintain the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is preferred because its ridges hold onto the pesto and sauce beautifully, other shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni will work wonderfully as well.

Is homemade pesto better for this Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe?

Homemade pesto has a vibrant freshness that really shines, but a good quality store-bought basil pesto can save time and still deliver delicious results, making this recipe very flexible.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the chicken and add vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes to keep it hearty and full of texture while enjoying that fantastic pesto flavor.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish. You can adjust the amount from 1/2 to 1 teaspoon or omit entirely based on your heat preference.

What kind of Parmesan cheese should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano adds the best flavor and texture, but for convenience, pre-grated parmesan is fine. Just make sure it’s good quality for the fullest flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that brings comfort and joy to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It’s perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a go-to favorite. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this your new kitchen classic!