Name: Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces rigatoni (or other short pasta); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt; Black pepper to taste; 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced; 1/2 cup pesto; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/4 cup heavy cream or half and half; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 3 reviews

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If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, comforting dish that feels both fresh and indulgent, then this Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful marriage of tender chicken chunks, al dente rigatoni, and a luscious pesto sauce enhanced with a hint of lemon and cream for extra richness. Each bite bursts with herbaceous flavor and creamy texture, making it a perfect meal for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your go-to favorites in no time!

Ingredients You'll Need

A top view of a round gray pan filled with multiple small pieces of cooked chicken scattered inside. The chicken pieces are light golden brown with specks of herbs and spices visible on them, giving a slightly crispy texture. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, and there are small browned bits stuck to the pan around the chicken pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, from the seasoned, juicy chicken to the fresh pesto that gives the dish its vibrant green hue. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish together beautifully:

12 ounces rigatoni: A short pasta with ridges that hold onto the sauce perfectly, making every bite flavorful.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to cook the chicken, adding subtle richness and helping develop a golden sear.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1 inch chunks to cook evenly and remain juicy throughout.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the chicken with classic Mediterranean flavors.

¾ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors while balancing the richness of the pesto and cream.
Black pepper to taste: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the dish.
2 cloves garlic: Grated or minced to instantly brighten and elevate the savory notes.

½ cup pesto: The star ingredient, packed with fresh basil, pine nuts, and olive oil for that signature green goodness.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a refreshing acidity that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
¼ cup heavy cream or half and half: Provides a silky texture that rounds out the sauce.

¼ cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty and salty finish that complements the pesto perfectly.
Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional): A lovely finishing touch that makes the dish pop visually and aromatically.

How to Make Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking your rigatoni in salted boiling water until it reaches that perfect al dente texture – tender but with a slight bite. Don’t forget to save about half a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water will come to the rescue later if your pasta sauce needs loosening up.

Step 2: Prep and Season the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and cut them into roughly 1 inch chunks. Season them generously with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and the fragrant Italian seasoning. This step ensures your chicken carries a flavorful foundation.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Spread the chicken pieces out in a single layer to allow them to develop a beautiful golden crust. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s cooked through and juicy.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Combine Sauce Ingredients

Lower the heat to medium-low, then stir in the grated garlic and cook for just about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the cooked pasta into the pan along with the pesto, lemon juice, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything thoroughly to combine and warm through, coating the pasta and chicken in a luscious, glossy sauce. If the mixture seems a bit thick or dry, gently stir in some of the saved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

How to Serve Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe

A large gray pan holds three main layers: at the bottom, light brown cooked chicken pieces are visible, topped by a thick layer of pale yellow rigatoni pasta arranged loosely, covering most of the chicken. On top of the pasta, there are two dollops; one bright green pesto with a coarse texture and one white creamy spread next to it, and a mound of finely grated white cheese sits close by, partially covering some pasta. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a splash of bright green, infusing the dish with another layer of fresh herbal aroma. You can also scatter a little extra parmesan on top for that irresistible cheesy finish. These garnishes make the plate not only look inviting but taste even more vibrant.

Side Dishes

This Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement without overpowering. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes adds balance to the creamy pasta. Crunchy garlic bread is another comforting option that’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets or rustic bowls, garnished elegantly with basil leaves and a lemon wedge on the side. You might also toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts or drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top just before serving for an elevated touch that impresses guests every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps quite well when stored properly. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness again with minimal effort.

Freezing

Freezing pasta with pesto sauce can be a bit tricky because the cream and basil flavors may change texture, but if you want to freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Consume it within one month for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through and creamy once more. Avoid using high heat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully because its ridges hold onto the sauce, other short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle are wonderful substitutes depending on what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe without cream?

Yes, you can skip the cream or replace it with a lighter alternative like half and half or even Greek yogurt stirred in at the end. This will still give a nice creaminess but with less richness.

Can I prepare the pesto from scratch for this recipe?

Definitely! Homemade pesto made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil adds a fantastic fresh flavor if you have the time. It elevates the dish even more, making this Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe truly unforgettable.

How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should be opaque and no longer pink inside. Tender chunks enhance the texture experience of the dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Sure thing! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or even chickpeas for protein. The pesto sauce is rich enough to carry the dish beautifully on its own.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe elegantly balances fresh, creamy, and savory components in a way that feels comfortingly special. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, it’s guaranteed to satisfy and impress. Dive in with fresh ingredients, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this dish again and again — a true kitchen classic in the making!

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Chicken and Pesto Pasta Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need