Lunch Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creamy pesto pasta with juicy chicken, parmesan, and fresh basil for an easy comforting lunch that feels restaurant-worthy.

25 mins Easy Lunch
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Ingredients

  • 250g pasta
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 3 tbsp pesto
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Fresh basil

Instructions

1

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

2

Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in olive oil until golden.

3

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

4

Pour in cream and stir in pesto and parmesan cheese.

5

Add cooked pasta and toss until fully coated.

6

Top with fresh basil and extra parmesan before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken pesto pasta is rich, cozy, and packed with comforting flavor while still feeling fresh and vibrant thanks to basil pesto and parmesan.

  • Easy weeknight dinner
  • Ultra creamy and comforting
  • Restaurant-style pasta at home
  • Perfect for cozy dinners

Ingredient Notes

Good pesto makes a huge difference here. Use fresh basil pesto with real parmesan for the best flavor and color.

Heavy cream creates the silky sauce texture, while pasta water helps everything coat the noodles beautifully.

Tips For Perfect Pesto Pasta

  • Cook pasta just until al dente.
  • Reserve pasta water before draining.
  • Slice chicken after resting so it stays juicy.
  • Add parmesan gradually for a smooth sauce.

Variations

Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, burrata, roasted broccoli, or crispy bacon for extra flavor and texture.