Homemade Creamy Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
Description:
This creamy chicken basil pesto pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish made with tender chicken breast, fresh basil pesto, and a rich, creamy sauce tossed with al dente pasta. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together in under 40 minutes.
Time Required:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Basil Pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts as a substitute)
2–3 garlic cloves
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Chicken Pasta:
2 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, sliced thi
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
300–350g (10–12 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, fettuccine, or your favorite)
1 tbsp
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy crea
½ cup milk (optional, for thinning)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup basil pesto (from above)
Cherry tomatoes (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Make the Basil Pesto (5 minutes):
In a food processor, add basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
Pulse a few times, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending.
Blend until smooth or desired texture.
Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta (10–12 minutes):
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until al dente (firm to bite).
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
3. Cook the Chicken (6–8 minutes):
Season chicken slices with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
Sauté chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce (7–8 minutes):
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
Add heavy cream, let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and pesto, mix until creamy.
(Optional) Add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
5. Combine Everything (3–5 minutes):
Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet.
Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Cook for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
(Optional) Add cherry tomatoes and fresh basil on top.
To Serve:
Serve hot with extra Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and fresh basil.
Garlic bread or a crisp green salad makes a perfect side.
Q&A – Common Questions Answered:
Q1: Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes. Store-bought pesto is convenient and works fine. However, homemade pesto has a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
Q2: Can I substitute the cream?
Yes, for a lighter version, use:
Half-and-half
Greek yogurt (stirred in at the end)
Coconut cream (for dairy-free)
Q3: What’s the best pasta for this dish?
Short pasta like penne or rotini holds the creamy sauce well, but fettuccine or linguine also work beautifully.
Q4: Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Great additions include:
Spinach (stir in at the end)
Cherry tomatoes
Broccoli (lightly steamed or roasted)
Mushrooms
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Q6: Can I make it ahead?
Yes, you can make the pesto and even cook the chicken in
advance. Assemble everything just before serving for best tex