20 Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Variations

Are you tired of the same old pasta recipes? Look no further! Today, we’re excited to share with you our top 20 creamy chicken pesto pasta variations that are sure to spice up your dinner routine. From classic combinations to bold and adventurous twists, these mouthwatering dishes are perfect for anyone who loves a good plate of pasta.

From sun-dried tomatoes to roasted red peppers, and from grilled artichokes to Cajun spices, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to creamy chicken pesto pasta recipes. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 different takes on creamy chicken pesto pasta, each one showcasing the versatility and flavor of this beloved dish. So grab a fork and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious eats!

Classic Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Classic Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta: A rich and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of creamy pasta.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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 and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped basil and pesto sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with basil and pesto mixture.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with creamy pesto sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pesto Pasta

This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto with juicy chicken and al dente pasta for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pan, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned on both sides and cooked through.
4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, pesto, and Parmesan cheese to the pan with the chicken. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture in a large serving bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spinach and Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake

A delicious and satisfying one-dish meal that combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, and pesto with pasta and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking

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, cook chicken and cherry tomatoes in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
5. Stir in pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Grilled Chicken Artichoke Pesto Pasta

A flavorful and satisfying summer pasta dish featuring grilled chicken, artichoke hearts, and a rich pesto sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breast.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine artichoke hearts, pesto sauce, and sliced grilled chicken. Toss everything together until well coated with the pesto sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken-pesto mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta

This creamy, flavorful pasta dish combines the richness of garlic butter with the zest of pesto and the tenderness of chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and chicken mixture. Toss until well combined and creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lemon Parmesan Chicken Pesto Pasta

This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and pesto with the richness of parmesan cheese and chicken, all tossed with al dente pasta. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti 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 and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in pesto and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing with pasta water as needed. Combine with chicken and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cajun Chicken Pesto Pasta

Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy and savory Cajun chicken pesto pasta recipe. With the perfect blend of creamy pesto, crispy chicken, and tangy cayenne pepper, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dashes cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in pesto sauce, parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta with chicken mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Bacon and Chicken Pesto Pasta Alfredo

This creamy, indulgent pasta dish combines the flavors of crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and vibrant pesto with a rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add cooked chicken, pesto, heavy cream, and butter to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

One-Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta Primavera

This hearty, one-pot pasta dish combines the flavors of Italy with the freshness of spring vegetables and the richness of pesto. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s ready in under an hour!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or bow tie)
– 2 tbsp pesto
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
2. In the same pot, add the olive oil and sauté the chicken until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, spring vegetables, pesto, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes

Mushroom and Chicken Pesto Pasta

Transform a weeknight dinner into a flavorful feast with this quick and satisfying recipe. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich pesto sauce come together to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken-mushroom mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Pesto Pasta

A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory goodness of chicken and pesto sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, linguine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss chicken with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toss red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted chicken, pesto sauce, and roasted red peppers. Toss to combine.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Pesto Chicken Pasta with Burrata

This Italian-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of pesto, chicken, and creamy burrata cheese, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp. pesto
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 ball burrata cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Grill or sauté chicken breast until cooked through. Slice into strips.
3. In a large skillet, combine pesto, heavy cream, and cherry tomatoes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss until well coated with sauce.
5. Cut burrata cheese into small pieces and add to the pasta mixture. Toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Zucchini Noodle Chicken Pesto Pasta

This recipe combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, and zucchini noodles to create a light and satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or by spiralizing fresh zucchinis.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the pesto sauce, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the cooked zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with the chicken and pesto mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Pesto Pasta

A creamy, spicy, and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of honey garlic chicken, pesto sauce, and roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 cup roasted vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chicken with olive oil, honey, garlic, and red pepper flakes on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine roasted vegetables and pesto sauce. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Avocado Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the tanginess of pesto and the protein-richness of chicken. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup homemade pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, avocado, and pesto sauce. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and toss again to distribute evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken-avocado mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (not including cooking time for pasta)

Bruschetta Chicken Pesto Pasta

Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful Bruschetta Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup bruschetta topping (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes until cooked through.
3. Add pesto sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and pesto mixture.
5. Top with bruschetta topping and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Pesto Chicken Pasta Carbonara

This rich and indulgent pasta dish combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, and carbonara to create a truly satisfying meal. With its creamy sauce and succulent chicken, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and pesto. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with egg mixture until well combined.
5. Slice the cooled chicken breast into thin strips and add to the pasta.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta with Asparagus

A flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the rich taste of pesto sauce, juicy chicken, and tender asparagus, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 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 and asparagus in a little olive oil until cooked through.
3. Add pesto sauce and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken/asparagus mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional asparagus if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Mediterranean Chicken Pesto Pasta

A flavorful and aromatic pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with the richness of pesto sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)

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 and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and add garlic, basil leaves, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and combine with cooked pasta.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pesto Chicken Mac and Cheese

Elevate the classic comfort food with a creamy twist! This Pesto Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines the richness of pasta, cheese, and chicken with the bright flavors of pesto.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in olive oil until cooked through. Add pesto sauce and stir to combine.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Summary

Indulge in the creamy goodness of chicken pesto pasta with our collection of 20 mouth-watering variations! From classic recipes to creative twists, we’ve got you covered. Try our Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pesto Pasta for a burst of flavor or opt for the Spinach and Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake for a comforting casserole. Grilled Chicken Artichoke Pesto Pasta adds a Mediterranean flair, while Garlic Butter Chicken Pesto Pasta is a rich and indulgent treat. And that’s just the beginning – discover even more delicious recipes within!