Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy goodness! Pesto and chicken are a match made in heaven, and when combined with al dente pasta, it’s a recipe for success. In this article, we’ll be counting down the top 20 creamy chicken pesto pasta delights that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
From classic combinations to innovative twists, these recipes showcase the versatility of pesto and its ability to elevate even the most mundane ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta to Pesto Alfredo Chicken Pasta Bake, and even Avocado Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad. So grab your apron, put on your favorite cooking music, and let’s dive into the top 20 creamy chicken pesto pasta delights that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and chicken with the boldness of pesto sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and pesto sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pesto Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, and pesto for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp. pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (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 browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, pesto sauce, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and tomato-pesto mixture in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Spinach Chicken Pesto Pasta
Savor the flavors of Italy with this creamy and indulgent pasta dish, packed with tender chicken, wilted spinach, and a rich pesto sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken breast over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. Add spinach leaves and pesto sauce to the skillet. Stir until spinach wilts and mixture is well combined.
4. Add heavy cream and stir until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Basil Chicken Pesto Pasta
A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines the zesty taste of lemon with the freshness of basil, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy pesto sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 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 olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and add garlic, basil, lemon juice, and pesto sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the sauce until well coated.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Pesto Pasta
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the creaminess of pesto, all wrapped up with tender chicken and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toss red bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes or until charred and blistered.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Combine roasted chicken, pesto, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water in a large bowl.
6. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
7. Top with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Alfredo Chicken Pasta Bake
Pesto Alfredo Chicken Pasta Bake: A creamy and flavorful twist on classic chicken pasta bake!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chicken with salt and pepper until cooked through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, pesto sauce, and Alfredo sauce in a large bowl.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
7. Sprinkle basil leaves for garnish.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta
Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with this easy-to-make one-pot pasta recipe, featuring chicken, pesto, and cherry tomatoes. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes, pesto, and cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add the pasta and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cooking with the creaminess of pesto and the comfort of pasta, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp. Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 cup pesto
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp. oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet; set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp. oil, pesto, heavy cream, and garlic powder. Stir to combine; bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the pesto sauce.
6. Return chicken to the skillet; toss to combine with pasta and sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Mushroom Chicken Pesto Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, chicken breast, and homemade pesto sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup homemade pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 12 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sliced mushrooms to the same skillet and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked chicken breast to the skillet and stir in homemade pesto sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, mushroom mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the richness of chicken and pesto, all tossed with al dente pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 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 bowl, combine cooked chicken, diced avocado, pesto sauce, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of a weeknight dinner. Fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese come together to create a creamy pesto sauce that pairs perfectly with juicy chicken and sweet cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the pesto sauce to the skillet with the reserved pasta water. Stir until combined.
5. Add cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta with Asparagus
A delicious summer-inspired pasta dish that combines the flavors of grilled chicken, pesto, and fresh asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine pesto and asparagus. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and asparagus mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
A delicious and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of creamy pesto, juicy chicken, and tender broccoli. 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
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken breast over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Add pesto sauce, broccoli, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the same skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Slice cooled chicken into strips and add to the skillet. Stir to combine with the pasta sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this unique fusion of Italian flavors, combining the richness of carbonara with the bright zing of pesto and the savory charm of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in pesto and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken, and sauce. Toss until well coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a classic pasta dish, featuring chicken, pesto, and colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 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 olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and red bell peppers to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Artichokes
This recipe combines the bright flavors of pesto, juicy chicken, and artichoke hearts for a delightful and easy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp pesto
– 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken breast over medium-high heat until cooked through. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
3. Add pesto, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet with chicken. Stir to combine.
4. Stir in artichoke hearts and chopped parsley.
5. Combine cooked pasta with chicken-pesto mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Pesto Pasta Casserole
A comforting twist on classic pasta dishes, this Cheesy Chicken Pesto Pasta Casserole combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, and melted mozzarella for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
4. Add pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and basil in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Roasted Garlic
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Roasted Garlic Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the creamy flavors of pesto and roasted garlic with tender chicken and al dente pasta for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In the same oven, roast garlic cloves for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, pesto sauce, and reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth and heated through.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with garlic-pesto sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve pasta topped with chicken and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the freshness of zucchini noodles, creating a delicious and healthy meal option. With its rich and creamy pesto sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium-high heat until cooked through; chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. Spiralize zucchinis and sauté in the same skillet with garlic until tender.
5. Add pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with chicken and zucchini noodles.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and zucchini mixture; season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Pine Nuts
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, combining the richness of pesto sauce, juicy chicken, and crunchy pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with garlic until cooked through.
4. Add pesto sauce and stir until well combined.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with chicken-pesto mixture.
6. Sprinkle pine nuts over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Chicken and garlic: 10 minutes
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-12 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight! This article brings you 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the flavors of creamy chicken, pesto, and pasta. From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta to unique twists like Spicy Cajun Chicken Pesto Pasta, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole or a quick one-pot meal, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. With an array of flavors and ingredients, you’ll be inspired to get creative in the kitchen and whip up a delicious dish that’s sure to please.
