Creamy Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken is the perfect harmony of freshness, comfort, and elegance. Tender grilled chicken breasts rest atop a bed of perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, velvety pesto cream sauce made from fragrant basil, garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of cream.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a romantic date night meal, or a special family gathering, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser that looks and tastes like something from a high-end Italian restaurant — yet it’s surprisingly simple to make at home!

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it embodies balance and comfort. It’s not just another pasta — it’s a symphony of flavor and texture. The homemade pesto brings brightness and depth, while the cream adds luxurious smoothness.

The grilled chicken complements the sauce perfectly, offering protein and a smoky touch that elevates the dish.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You absolutely must try this Creamy Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken because:

• It’s simple yet gourmet — easy enough for a weeknight, fancy enough for guests.
• It’s nutritionally balanced, offering carbs, protein, and healthy fats in one bowl.
• The creamy pesto sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, giving every bite a burst of flavor.
• It’s customizable — you can use any pasta shape, add veggies, or make it gluten-free.
• It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser — adults love its depth, and kids adore its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 640 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons pasta water to adjust consistency

For the Pasta:

• 300 g (about 10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
• Water and salt, for boiling

Optional Garnish:

• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Cracked black pepper

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry and rub it with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a grill pan (or outdoor grill) over medium-high heat.
3. Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
4. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the basil pesto and whisk until well combined.
6. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
7. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce.
2. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
3. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top and toss gently or serve it layered.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Plate the pasta and top with more grilled chicken slices.
2. Garnish with grated Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
3. Serve warm and enjoy the aromatic, creamy goodness!

How to Serve

• Serve hot with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
• For a cozy meal, add a side of tomato bruschetta or caprese salad.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be firm to the bite so it holds up in the sauce.
• Use good quality pesto. Homemade pesto made with fresh basil and real Parmesan will elevate the dish.
• Reserve pasta water! It helps make the sauce silky and cling better to the noodles.
• Rest the chicken after grilling to lock in juices and keep it tender.
• Add baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

Recipe Variations

1. Shrimp Pesto Pasta: Swap grilled chicken with sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
2. Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add grilled zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms.
3. Spicy Pesto Pasta: Add red chili flakes or a touch of spicy pesto for a kick.
4. Lighter Version: Use milk instead of cream and Greek yogurt for extra protein.
5. Baked Pesto Pasta: Mix pasta with sauce and chicken, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.
• Freezing: Not ideal because creamy sauces can separate, but if needed, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
• Make Ahead Tip: Grill the chicken and make the pesto sauce a day ahead. Cook pasta fresh before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs and spatula
• Whisk

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! High-quality store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves time.

Q2: What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the creamy sauce well, but fettuccine or spaghetti are great too.

Q3: How can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and vegan Parmesan.

Q4: Can I meal prep this?
Yes, it reheats beautifully. Store components separately (pasta, sauce, and chicken) for best results.

Q5: Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken works perfectly here.

Conclusion

The Creamy Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken is a comforting Italian-inspired masterpiece that’s both indulgent and wholesome. With its luscious sauce, smoky grilled chicken, and aromatic pesto, this dish is the perfect fusion of flavor and texture.

It’s a meal that brings people together — satisfying enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for a busy weekday night. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.