Are you tired of the same old boring pasta dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’re excited to share 20 deliciously creamy chicken pesto pasta recipes that are sure to spice up your meal routine. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic garlic butter flavor or something more adventurous like spicy Cajun or Mediterranean-inspired, we’ve got you covered.
From one-pot wonders to slow cooker meals and salad options, our collection of recipes offers a variety of flavors and textures to suit every taste. And with chicken as the star of the show, you can rest assured that these dishes will be satisfying and filling.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and indulge in the rich and creamy world of chicken pesto pasta! In the following pages, we’ll explore each recipe in detail, complete with step-by-step instructions and mouthwatering photos to inspire your culinary journey.
Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe. This dish combines the richness of garlic butter, the zest of pesto, and the tender juiciness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful dish, featuring tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with garlic until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, pesto sauce, heavy cream, and basil to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Lemon Basil Chicken Pesto Pasta
Lemon Basil Chicken Pesto Pasta: A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines the freshness of lemon, the sweetness of basil, and the richness of chicken and pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side).
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add lemon juice, basil, and pesto sauce. Stir well to combine.
4. Add reserved pasta water and stir to create a creamy sauce. Return chicken to the skillet and toss with pasta and sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Mushroom Chicken Pesto Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of chicken, spinach, and mushrooms with the tanginess of pesto sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and mushroom-spinach mixture. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta with Parmesan
Savor a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe combines juicy chicken, tangy pesto sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, add olive oil and cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add pesto sauce, chicken broth, and cooked pasta to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pesto Pasta
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy cajun chicken pesto pasta recipe. A perfect blend of creaminess, spice, and savory goodness that will leave you craving for more!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add pesto sauce, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the spicy cajun chicken mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Chicken Pesto Pasta Alfredo
A classic comfort food recipe with a twist! This dish combines the flavors of chicken, pesto, and fettuccine pasta in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add pesto sauce and cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine pasta, baked chicken, and creamy Alfredo sauce in a baking dish.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato Chicken Pesto Pasta
Roasted Cherry Tomato Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the flavors of roasted cherry tomatoes, chicken breast, and pesto with al dente pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups (250g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60g) pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine cooked chicken, pesto, and roasted cherry tomatoes with cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines the richness of avocado and pesto with the savory taste of chicken. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, diced avocado, and pesto. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well coated.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta with Asparagus
This recipe combines the richness of grilled chicken and pesto sauce with the tender crunch of asparagus, all wrapped up in a deliciously simple pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine asparagus, garlic, and pesto sauce. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until asparagus is tender.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the skillet with asparagus. Toss to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken-asparagus mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Pesto Pasta
Slow Cooker Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
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This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, pesto, and pasta for a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and some hands-off time in the slow cooker, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go.
Ingredients:
————
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
————-
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, pesto sauce, onion, and diced tomatoes.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. Drain pasta and add it to the slow cooker with the chicken mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time:
————-
– Low: 6-8 hours
– High: 3-4 hours
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Pesto Pasta!
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Burst Tomatoes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Burst Tomatoes: A flavorful and colorful dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with juicy chicken and tender pasta, all topped with sweet and tangy burst tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz. linguine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken breast with garlic over medium-high heat until cooked through. Slice into thin strips.
3. Add the pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to burst open.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and burst tomatoes in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Goat Cheese
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting pasta dish, featuring juicy chicken, vibrant pesto, and tangy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breast with salt and pepper until cooked through. Set aside.
3. Add pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with any remaining juices from the chicken.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and pesto mixture in a large serving bowl.
6. Top with crumbled goat cheese and grated Parmesan (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Chicken Pesto Pasta
A lighter take on traditional pasta, this recipe uses zucchini noodles and chicken to create a flavorful and nutritious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the chicken into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the zucchinis in a spiralizer or using a vegetable peeler to create noodle-like strands.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken.
6. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss to combine with the chicken and pesto sauce.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Pesto Pasta Carbonara
A rich and satisfying Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of chicken, pesto, and pasta with a creamy carbonara twist. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. Add olive oil, garlic, and pesto to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken mixture, and cream egg mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Pesto Pasta
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this creamy and vibrant pasta dish, combining succulent chicken, fragrant basil, and tangy pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and add garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in chopped basil and pesto sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the pesto sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Artichokes
A flavorful and quick weeknight dinner that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the tender bite of chicken and artichoke hearts. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or make a delicious meal for the family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken, diced
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until heated through.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and artichoke hearts. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the chicken and pesto mixture until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of pesto, roasted red peppers, and juicy chicken for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful pasta dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken with salt and pepper; cook in a skillet until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Roast red bell peppers in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and charred.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine cooked chicken, pesto sauce, and roasted red peppers in a large bowl; toss to combine.
6. Add cooked pasta to the bowl; toss everything together until well coated with the pesto mixture.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines juicy chicken, savory pesto sauce, and crunchy pine nuts for a flavorful and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you can have this delicious pasta on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and garlic until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
3. Add pesto sauce and stir until well combined.
4. Stir in pine nuts and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until toasted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with chicken and pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines cooked chicken, pesto, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting casserole. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, cooled chicken, and pesto mixture. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious culinary experience with these 20 creamy chicken pesto pasta recipes! From classic Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta to Spicy Cajun Chicken Pesto Pasta, and even Avocado Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, there’s something for every palate. Try One-Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta with Parmesan for a hearty meal or go for Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta with Asparagus for a light and refreshing option. With a variety of flavors and textures to choose from, you’ll never get bored with these mouthwatering recipes. Prepare to satisfy your cravings!
