Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
A quick, one‑pan creamy pesto chicken pasta that’s packed with flavor. Tender cubed chicken breast, a rich heavy‑cream and basil pesto sauce, tossed with al dente pasta and finished with melted Parmesan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels restaurant‑worthy.
Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist
Cost Breakdown
Critical Success Points
- • Cubing the chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
- • Searing the chicken until golden but not overcooked.
- • Deglazing the pan with heavy cream to capture flavor.
- • Balancing sauce thickness with pasta water.
- • Melting Parmesan at the end to finish the sauce.
Safety Warnings
- • Handle hot skillet and oil with care to avoid burns.
- • Do not leave garlic unattended; it can burn quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about this recipe
What is the cultural significance and history of pesto in Italian cuisine?
Pesto originated in Genoa, Liguria, where fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, cheese, and olive oil were blended into a vibrant green sauce. It has become a staple of Italian cooking, traditionally tossed with pasta, potatoes, or used as a spread.
What are the traditional regional variations of pesto in Italian cuisine?
Besides the classic Genovese pesto, northern Italy features pistachio pesto in Sicily, sun‑dried tomato pesto in Calabria, and walnut pesto in the Piedmont region. Each variation reflects local nuts and produce.
How is creamy pesto chicken pasta traditionally served in Italian‑American households?
In Italian‑American homes, the dish is often served family‑style on a large platter, topped with extra grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil, accompanied by a simple green salad and crusty bread.
What occasions or celebrations is creamy pesto chicken pasta associated with in Italian‑American culture?
It’s a popular weeknight dinner but also appears at casual gatherings, pot‑lucks, and family celebrations because it’s quick, crowd‑pleasing, and can be made in large batches.
What other Italian‑American dishes pair well with creamy pesto chicken pasta?
Pairs nicely with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted garlic bread, or a light antipasto platter featuring olives, cured meats, and marinated vegetables.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making creamy pesto chicken pasta?
Common errors include overcooking the chicken, burning the garlic, and letting the sauce become watery. Keep the heat moderate, watch the garlic, and use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Why does this recipe use heavy cream instead of milk for the sauce?
Heavy cream provides the richness and body needed to carry the pesto’s flavor without separating, giving the dish its signature silky texture.
Can I make creamy pesto chicken pasta ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Store the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore creaminess.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the sauce is done?
The sauce should be glossy, coat the pasta evenly, and have a velvety consistency that clings to the noodles without pooling excessively.
What does the YouTube channel Whip It Up With Jay specialize in?
The YouTube channel Whip It Up With Jay focuses on quick, approachable home‑cooking tutorials that blend classic comfort foods with modern twists, emphasizing flavor‑forward techniques for everyday cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Whip It Up With Jay's approach to Italian‑American cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Whip It Up With Jay emphasizes high‑energy presentation, generous seasoning, and one‑pan efficiency, often adding bold spice blends like Cajun seasoning to familiar Italian dishes, setting the channel apart from more traditional Italian cooking shows.
You Might Also Like
Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos
Cajun Chicken And Shrimp Lasagna Recipe
A creamy, cheesy lasagna roll-up packed with seasoned shrimp and chicken, baked in a rich white sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner that feels gourmet yet is easy enough for a weeknight.
Easy AND Delicious! 10/10 I DO Recommend!!
A quick and easy cheesy pull-apart garlic bread using King Arthur's ready‑made dough mix. Perfect for pasta night, this buttery, garlicky, melt‑in‑your‑mouth bread comes together in about an hour and feeds a crowd.
THE BEST SEAFOOD LASAGNA RECIPE!
An insanely rich and creamy seafood lasagna packed with shrimp, crawfish, crab meat, spinach, and a decadent cheese sauce flavored with Creole seasoning. Perfect for a special dinner or holiday gathering.
Easy Lasagna Roll Ups With Meat - Make Ahead
Easy, cheesy, beefy lasagna roll-ups that capture all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna but are quicker to serve. Perfect for a family dinner or a make‑ahead meal.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole 2012 - Easy Chicken Parm Bake
An easy, crowd‑pleasing Italian‑American casserole that mimics classic chicken parmesan. Six seasoned chicken breasts are layered with garlicky tomato sauce, mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, and crunchy croutons, then baked until golden and juicy. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Chicken Tetrazzini - The Ultimate Weeknight Retro Classic
A rich, creamy baked pasta dish packed with seared chicken thighs, mushrooms, and a buttery cheese sauce. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this comforting Italian‑American classic is topped with golden breadcrumbs for extra texture.