As a busy mom, you often juggle a million tasks each day. When it comes to dinner, you want something quick and comforting that your whole family will love. This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta fits the bill perfectly. It combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese, making it a dish that both kids and adults will want to dig into. You can whip it up in less than an hour, which means more time to spend with your loved ones.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta stands out because it leverages simple ingredients and minimal prep time. You can prepare this hearty dish in just a few easy steps, making it ideal for those busy evenings. The creamy, cheesy sauce is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor, ensuring your kids will ask for seconds. Plus, you can sneak in some spinach for added nutrition. Family dinners don’t have to be complicated, and this recipe proves it.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 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
Directions
- 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.
- 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.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
A quick and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, a creamy pesto sauce, and cheesy goodness that’s perfect for family dinners.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 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, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper, sauté until cooked through and golden, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and whole milk, bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, then mix in basil pesto and grated Parmesan until smooth.
- Return cooked chicken, drained pasta, and spinach (if using) to the sauce and toss until coated.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
How to Serve
Serve the Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta straight from the oven for a delightful family meal. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. This dish also makes for delicious leftovers. If you like, add extra basil or a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of zing.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the pasta seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
Tips and Variations
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Experiment with different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great alternative for added fiber.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dish. Just cover it tightly and store it for up to a month. Bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What if I don’t have basil pesto?
You can easily make a quick version using fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts, or just skip it altogether and use a creamy Alfredo sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a perfect go-to meal that brings comfort and flavor with minimal effort. It’s simple enough for busy nights, yet delicious enough to impress your family. Gather your ingredients and try this recipe tonight; you and your family will enjoy every bite. Don’t forget to save this for later!
