Tired of scrambling for dinner ideas after a long workday? We’ve all been there—staring into the refrigerator, hoping inspiration will strike. That’s where pesto chicken pasta comes to the rescue! This versatile dish delivers creamy, herbaceous flavor and satisfying protein in less time than it takes to order takeout.
In this guide, you’ll discover five mouthwatering pesto chicken pasta variations that will transform your weeknight dinner routine. We’ll cover everything from ingredient selection and time-saving prep techniques to storage tips and flavor adaptations that will keep your family asking for seconds.
Why These Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipes Work
These pesto chicken pasta recipes have become staples in countless home kitchens for good reason:
- Uses affordable, easily accessible ingredients found in most supermarkets
- Most variations cook in under 30 minutes from start to finish
- Adaptable to whatever you have on hand—swap proteins, pasta shapes, or add extra veggies
- Leftovers retain flavor beautifully, making them perfect for lunch the next day
- Kid-friendly while still satisfying adult palates
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Pasta
Best Chicken Cuts for Pesto Pasta
The chicken you select makes a significant difference in your final dish:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and quick-cooking, perfect when sliced thin for faster cooking
- Chicken thighs: More forgiving with cooking times and naturally juicier, ideal for beginners
- Rotisserie chicken: Pre-cooked time-saver that can be shredded directly into the pasta
Pasta Selection Tips
Not all pasta shapes work equally well with pesto sauces:
- Fusilli, farfalle, or rotini: The twists and crevices catch the sauce beautifully
- Penne or rigatoni: Tube shapes allow pesto to collect both inside and outside
- Whole wheat options: Add nutty flavor and extra fiber if preferred
Pesto Variations
While classic basil pesto is divine, don’t be afraid to experiment:
- Traditional basil pesto: The classic choice with bright, fresh flavor
- Sun-dried tomato pesto: Adds sweet-tart depth and vibrant color
- Kale or arugula pesto: Incorporates extra vegetables with a peppery kick
Ingredients & Prep for Pesto Chicken Pasta Dishes
Chicken Prep Essentials
Proper chicken preparation ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption:
- Slice chicken breasts horizontally or pound to even thickness (about ½ inch)
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning for better browning
- Season with salt and pepper at least 15 minutes before cooking
Quick Pesto Options
Store-bought pesto:
- Time-saving convenience
- Look for refrigerated versions for fresher flavor
- Approximately ¼ cup per serving
Homemade pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or substitute walnuts)
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan
Pantry & Refrigerator Staples
- Olive oil for cooking chicken
- Cherry tomatoes for brightness
- Fresh garlic for depth of flavor
- Parmesan cheese for finishing
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Pesto Chicken Pasta
Pre-Cooking Prep for Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil for pasta
- Slice chicken into even strips or cubes for consistent cooking
- Measure out pesto and any additional ingredients
- Grate fresh parmesan if using
Cooking Method for Basic Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente
- While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Add chicken pieces, cooking 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature)
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining pasta
- Toss hot pasta with pesto, adding splashes of reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce
- Fold in cooked chicken and any additional ingredients (cherry tomatoes, spinach, etc.)
Looking for more delicious pasta inspiration? Check out our collection of pasta recipes on Pinterest for endless mealtime ideas!
Doneness Check for Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Chicken should be opaque throughout with no pink visible
- Pasta should be tender but still have slight resistance (al dente)
- Sauce should coat pasta evenly but not appear dry or overly oily
Resting and Serving Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Let the combined dish rest for 2-3 minutes off heat to allow flavors to meld
- Garnish with additional grated parmesan, fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of quality olive oil
- Serve immediately in warmed bowls for the best experience
Pro Tips for Perfect Pesto Chicken Pasta
Avoiding Common Mistakes with Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Never rinse pasta after cooking – it removes the starch needed for sauce adhesion
- Reserve pasta water – the starchy liquid is key for creating a silky, cohesive sauce
- Add pesto to pasta off the heat – high temperatures can dull the fresh flavors and color
- Season in layers – salt the pasta water, the chicken, and check final seasoning
Tool Recommendations for Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Large pasta pot with colander insert for easy draining
- 12-inch non-stick skillet for cooking chicken evenly
- Quality chef’s knife for consistent chicken pieces
- Microplane grater for fresh parmesan
Storage & Reheating Tips for Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days
- Add a splash of water or chicken broth when reheating to revive the sauce
- Reheat gently in a covered skillet, stirring occasionally
5 Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta Variations
1. Classic Pesto Chicken Pasta
The timeless combination that never disappoints, featuring basil pesto, juicy chicken, and al dente pasta.
2. Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to create a richer, more indulgent sauce that clings beautifully to pasta and chicken.
3. Mediterranean Pesto Chicken Pasta
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and Kalamata olives for a vacation-inspired twist on the classic. If you enjoy this Mediterranean flair, you’ll love our Japanese Miso Mushrooms: 5 Mind-Blowing Umami Recipes for another internationally-inspired option.
4. Roasted Vegetable Pesto Chicken Pasta
Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and vibrant color.
5. Lemon Pesto Chicken Pasta
Brighten the dish with fresh lemon zest and juice for a lighter, more summery variation.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Prep Time | Cooking Time | Best Pasta Shape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | Basil pesto, chicken, parmesan | 10 min | 15 min | Fusilli |
| Creamy | Heavy cream, basil pesto, chicken | 10 min | 20 min | Penne |
| Mediterranean | Sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, olives | 15 min | 15 min | Farfalle |
| Roasted Vegetable | Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes | 20 min | 25 min | Rotini |
| Lemon | Lemon zest, lemon juice, basil pesto | 10 min | 15 min | Linguine |
Serving Suggestions for Pesto Chicken Pasta
Complete your pesto chicken pasta meal with these complementary sides:
- Fresh salads: Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or classic Caesar
- Crusty bread: Garlic bread or focaccia for soaking up extra sauce
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, brussels sprouts, or broccoli add color and nutrition
For a heartier meal that’s perfect for colder weather, you might also consider our Vegetable Beef Soup that Saves Weeknight Dinners as an alternative comfort food option.
FAQs About Pesto Chicken Pasta
Can I make pesto chicken pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving. Alternatively, complete dishes can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated.
Can I use frozen chicken for pesto pasta?
Yes, but thaw completely before cooking and pat dry thoroughly to ensure proper browning and texture.
How do I fix dry pesto pasta?
Add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, while gently heating until the desired consistency is reached. A drizzle of olive oil can also help.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your store-bought pesto is gluten-free (most are).
Is pesto chicken pasta healthy?
While containing healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, traditional pesto is calorie-dense. Balance your meal with added vegetables and moderate portion sizes.
If you enjoy fusion cuisine, you might also want to explore How Japanese Curry Bun Became a Street Food Sensation for another quick weeknight dinner inspiration.
Conclusion
Pesto chicken pasta is the weeknight dinner hero every busy home cook needs in their recipe collection. With just a handful of ingredients, minimal prep time, and endless variations, these five recipes can transform your dinner routine from stressful to satisfying.
The beauty of pesto chicken pasta lies in its adaptability—make it as simple or elaborate as your time and ingredients allow. Start with the classic version and gradually explore different variations as your confidence grows.
Why not make one of these pesto chicken pasta recipes tonight? Your family will thank you, and your future self will appreciate having these reliable, delicious options in your cooking repertoire. Share your creations with us and discover what other home cooks are making!
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Pesto Chicken Pasta: 5 Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinners
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Pesto Chicken Pasta is fresh, creamy, and bursting with flavor — tender chicken tossed with basil pesto, pasta, and melty Parmesan. Ready in minutes and perfect for five delicious weeknight variations!
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamy version)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in pesto, cream (if using), and Parmesan cheese.
5. Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Add a splash of pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Stir in cherry tomatoes if desired and heat through for 1–2 minutes.
8. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Notes
🍃 5 Quick and Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta Dinners:
1. **Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta** – Stir in heavy cream for a rich, velvety sauce.
2. **Pesto Chicken Alfredo** – Combine Alfredo sauce with pesto for an indulgent twist.
3. **Pesto Chicken and Veggie Pasta** – Add sautéed zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
4. **Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake** – Top with mozzarella and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.
5. **Cold Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad** – Toss with cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls for a refreshing version.
Perfect for busy weeknights — flavorful, quick, and family-approved!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg