Name: Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 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; 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 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 desired; 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, drained if packed in oil; 1/2 cup basil pesto, homemade or quality store-bought, plus more if desired; Handful of torn basil leaves, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a dish that delivers vibrant flavors, comforting creaminess, and impressive ease all in one bowl, this Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a celebration of tender chicken morsels tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and that unmistakable basil pesto magic, all brought together in a luscious, creamy sauce. Simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve guests, this recipe turns humble ingredients into a stunningly delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Three raw chicken pieces with a pale pink smooth texture lie on a white rectangular plate at the center. To the right, a small white bowl holds pale yellow dry penne pasta, and below it a small clear glass bowl contains dark red sun-dried tomatoes. Above the chicken, a blue bowl is filled with finely grated pale yellow cheese. To the left, a clear bowl holds a mound of green pesto with a coarse texture, with a clear bowl of golden olive oil beside it. Small white and wooden bowls contain light brown dried herbs, white salt, and black ground spice, arranged in a neat line above the chicken. A block of pale yellow cheese and small bunch of fresh green basil leaves are near the top, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe relies on a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly yet pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays a starring role—from the aromatic Italian seasoning on the chicken to the creamy parmesan finish that binds everything in rich harmony.

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and juicy bites.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds warmth and herbal notes to the chicken.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and pasta water for balanced taste.
Black pepper: Freshly ground for a touch of heat and depth.
8 ounces penne pasta: The ridges on penne help hold onto the luscious sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: For cooking the chicken and introducing a rich, fruity layer.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds silkiness and richness to the sauce, tying all elements together.
1/4 cup parmesan cheese: Grated fresh for salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes: Their sweet, tangy punch cuts through the creaminess for exciting bursts.
1/2 cup basil pesto: The star ingredient—use homemade or a high-quality store-bought version for the best flavor.
1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, but highly recommended for a gentle spicy kick.
Handful of torn basil leaves: Fresh garnish to add a pop of green color and fresh herbal aroma.

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by tossing the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This simple seasoning infuses the chicken with a flavorful base that perfectly complements the pesto and creamy sauce you’ll be building later. It’s a small step but critical for a well-rounded taste.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a robust boil—using about one tablespoon of salt to a medium pot to flavor the pasta from within. Add the penne pasta and let it cook until just al dente, usually around 8 to 9 minutes according to the package. Cooking the pasta properly ensures it holds its shape and texture without becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

While your pasta is doing its thing, heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook it, tossing occasionally, until every piece is golden brown on the outside and cooked through—about 7 to 8 minutes. This step locks in juiciness and builds a delightful caramelized flavor.

Step 4: Drain the Pasta

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about one cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This reserve is incredibly useful—it helps you loosen the sauce later, making the final dish irresistibly glossy and well coated.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Reduce the heat under your skillet and add the cooked pasta, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to the chicken. Stir everything together, allowing the cream and cheese to melt into a rich sauce that clings to each piece of pasta. If it feels dry, gently mix in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water at a time until that perfect creamy consistency is achieved.

Step 6: Add the Pesto and Finish

Turn off the heat and remove the skillet from the burner. Stir in the basil pesto, letting its fresh, herbaceous flavor infuse the entire dish. Finish with a sprinkle of grated parmesan, red pepper flakes for that little zing, and a handful of torn basil leaves. Serve immediately to enjoy the pasta at its best, warm and fragrant.

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

A white plate holds a serving of penne pasta mixed with small chunks of cooked chicken, all coated in a creamy green pesto sauce with visible herbs and spices. The pasta is topped with a light sprinkling of grated cheese and a few fresh green basil leaves. To the right of the plate is a silver fork resting on the edge. In the background, there is a large white pot filled with more of the pesto pasta, along with small wooden bowls containing salt and pepper, a chunk of hard cheese, and a white bowl with red pepper flakes and a spoon. The setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few simple garnishes can elevate the dish from delightful to extraordinary. Fresh torn basil leaves introduce a fresh, herbal brightness, while extra grated parmesan cheese adds savory saltiness on top. If you enjoy just a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes brings a gentle warmth that complements the creamy pesto sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides that balance its rich flavors. A fresh green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or cherry tomatoes can add beautiful color and freshness to your plate. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette also make fantastic companions for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style in a large rustic bowl so everyone can dive in, or plate it individually with a small basil sprig atop each serving for a professional touch. For a festive occasion, drizzle a little extra pesto on the plate around the pasta for an artistic flair that’s as tasty as it looks. You can even stuff it into hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for a fun twist that impresses both kids and adults alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of this Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal even on busy days when you don’t want to cook.

Freezing

Freezing is an option, though the texture of the pasta may soften a bit after thawing due to the cream sauce. If you choose to freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Use it within 1 to 2 months for best flavor and texture, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

When it’s time to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power. Adding a splash of water or cream will help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally for even heating and serve hot to recapture the fresh-from-the-kitchen experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in the Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal because of its ridges that catch the sauce well, feel free to swap in fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Is it okay to use store-bought pesto?

Yes, a quality store-bought pesto works wonderfully and saves time. Just choose one that tastes fresh and vibrant, or make your own if you feel like adding a homemade touch!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra sun-dried tomatoes or your favorite veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty, meatless version.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth and depth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount or leave them out altogether if you prefer a milder taste.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

If your sauce feels too thick or sticky, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water little by little. This starchy water helps loosen and silkify the sauce without diluting the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe is one of those rare dishes that combines simplicity with a depth of flavor that delights everyone at the table. It’s perfect for when you want to whip up something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to give it a try—you just might find your new favorite weeknight dinner that also shines during special occasions. Trust me, once you taste that creamy, herbaceous goodness with tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again.