Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

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Few dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort and freshness like Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta. This meal wraps creamy richness, vibrant basil flavor, and juicy bites of chicken into one quick and delicious dinner that tastes like it came from your favorite bistro. With every forkful, you’re getting tender pasta coated in nutty, herby pesto, plus the savory satisfaction of seasoned chicken breast.

It’s the kind of dish that fits any night of the week, whether you’re looking to impress guests or just whip up something cozy and nourishing after a long day. It’s simple, but never boring. And with the shortcut of jarred or homemade pesto, it comes together in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

This pasta dish is a time-saver and flavor bomb all at once. The pesto brings brightness with its blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan, while the chicken adds protein to make it a full meal. Plus, it’s flexible. You can use any pasta shape you love and even swap in shrimp or tofu for the chicken. It’s also a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. Best of all, it tastes just as good the next day—if you have leftovers.

What Kind of Pesto Should I Use?

Both store-bought and homemade pesto work well in this recipe. If you want to save time, grab a quality jar from the store—just make sure basil is the first ingredient listed. For a more aromatic and fresh flavor, blend your own pesto at home using fresh basil leaves, parmesan, garlic, toasted pine nuts, and olive oil. You can also get creative with the herbs and nuts—try arugula or kale with walnuts for a twist.

Ingredients for the Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

When it comes to assembling this dish, it’s all about quality ingredients coming together in a simple way. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta: Choose your favorite shape. Penne, fusilli, or fettuccine hold the sauce well and add satisfying texture.

Chicken breast: Lean and versatile, it adds satisfying protein and soaks up the pesto beautifully.

Basil pesto: The star of the show. Bright, herby, nutty—it brings the entire dish together.

Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and adds extra richness to the sauce.

Parmesan cheese: Melts into the pasta and adds savory depth. A finishing sprinkle never hurts either.

Cherry tomatoes: Optional but recommended—they add juicy bursts of sweetness and color.

Salt & pepper: Basic seasoning that ensures every bite is flavorful.

How To Make the Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then add the cooked pasta. Stir in the pesto and a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce. Add sliced chicken and toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

Add halved cherry tomatoes if using, and toss again. Serve hot with freshly grated parmesan and maybe a few extra basil leaves on top.

How to Serve and Store Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

This recipe makes a hearty dinner that serves four people generously. You can plate it directly into shallow bowls for a bistro-style presentation or serve family-style in a large dish topped with extra parmesan.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and maintain the creaminess.

What to Serve With Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread makes a classic side that helps scoop up every bit of pesto.

Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta.

Grilled Zucchini

Charred zucchini adds a smoky veggie contrast that complements the herby pesto.

Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on a stick offer a fun, fresh appetizer.

Roasted Broccoli

Crispy edges and slight bitterness of broccoli make it a hearty, nutritious side.

Lemon Garlic Asparagus

Bright and snappy asparagus is always a good partner for anything pesto.

Chilled White Wine

A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the herbal notes beautifully.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re hooked on bold, satisfying pasta dishes, you’re going to love these:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a creamy, comforting meal.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta when you want a spicy kick with your noodles.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna if you’re in the mood for layers and seafood.
• Rattlesnake Pasta Recipe for a little heat and Tex-Mex flavor.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine when you’re craving bold, buttery comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s just a click away next time you need a delicious and fast dinner idea.

Have you tried swapping in shrimp or using sun-dried tomato pesto? Share your twist in the comments! Or just tell me how yours turned out.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and fresh pasta dishes on Luna Meals on Pinterest for more ideas to bring into your kitchen.

Conclusion

Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is a weeknight dream with its ease, flavor, and flexibility. It delivers satisfying comfort with a fresh twist and can easily be made your own with whatever protein or veggies you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for yourself, it’s a go-to pasta recipe that you’ll reach for again and again.

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