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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 650
Indulge in this comforting Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, featuring tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich pesto cream sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. A delightful and satisfying meal!

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta

Chicken

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

Other

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 0.75 cup heavy cream (plus 2 tablespoons)
  • 0.5 cup whole milk
  • 0.5 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 0.75 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional, for extra nutrition)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook pasta in boiling salted water for 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in heavy cream and milk, then simmer for 2–3 minutes. Mix in pesto and Parmesan, stirring until smooth.
  • Return cooked chicken, drained pasta, and spinach (if using) to the sauce. Toss thoroughly.
  • Transfer mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and 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

For a richer flavor, use homemade pesto. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes for extra taste.
Calories: 650kcal
Cost: $20
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Chicken