Pesto Chicken Pasta: 25 Minutes to Heartwarming Bliss

Name: Pesto Chicken Pasta: 25 Minutes to Heartwarming Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup pesto sauce; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

September 27, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a comforting plate of pesto chicken pasta that just warms my heart! I remember the first time I made this dish on a busy weeknight. My kitchen filled with the vibrant aroma of fresh basil and garlic, and I could hardly wait to dig in! The combination of tender shredded chicken, al dente pasta, and that luscious, herbaceous pesto is like a hug in a bowl. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that dance together so beautifully, and the best part? It comes together in just about 25 minutes! Seriously, you don’t need to be a culinary whiz to whip this up. Just a pot for boiling pasta and a pan to sauté, and you’re set for a delicious meal that feels fancy without all the fuss. Trust me, after just one bite, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for a mouthwatering pesto chicken pasta. Here’s everything you’ll need:

8 oz pasta: Any pasta shape you love, like penne or fusilli, works beautifully here.
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own if you prefer.
1 cup pesto sauce: Store-bought is perfectly fine, but homemade adds an extra touch of love!
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These sweet little gems add a burst of flavor and color to your dish.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for that rich, cheesy finish.
2 tbsp olive oil: This helps in sautéing the chicken to perfection.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all those fabulous flavors to life.

With these simple ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a delightful meal that will impress everyone at the table!

How to Prepare Pesto Chicken Pasta

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to whip up this delicious pesto chicken pasta! I promise it’s a breeze, and you’ll be savoring your creation in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of water. You’ll want to add a generous pinch of salt—this helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once the water’s at a rolling boil, toss in your 8 oz of pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. To check, just take a noodle out and give it a taste; you want it cooked but with a slight bite! Once it’s done, drain it well, but don’t rinse; that starchy coating helps the pesto stick later!

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

While your pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly—be careful not to let it smoke! This is the perfect time to add your shredded chicken.

Step 3: Add and Heat Chicken

Add the 2 cups of shredded chicken to the pan and stir it around to coat it in that lovely olive oil. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the chicken is heated through. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, it’s already cooked, so you just need to warm it up nicely!

Step 4: Stir in the Pesto Sauce

Now, it’s time for the star of the show—your pesto sauce! Pour in 1 cup of pesto and give everything a good mix. You want the chicken to be fully coated in that vibrant green sauce. If it seems a bit thick, don’t worry; it’ll loosen up when you add the pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Tomatoes

Next, add your drained pasta and the 1/2 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well mixed with the chicken and pesto. This is where those bright tomatoes will burst and add even more flavor!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—taste as you go! Once it’s seasoned just right, serve it hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You’re ready to dig in and enjoy! This dish not only looks beautiful but tastes like a dream.

Tips for Success

To elevate your pesto chicken pasta to the next level, here are some tried-and-true tips! First off, if you can, make your own pesto. The freshness of homemade pesto is unbeatable, and it’s a fun way to experiment with flavors—try adding nuts like walnuts or toasted pine nuts for a twist!

Don’t hesitate to toss in extra veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini can complement the dish beautifully and add some vibrant colors. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors wonderfully.

Lastly, remember that the quality of your ingredients matters. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a world of difference, and using good olive oil will enhance the overall taste. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

As with any delicious dish, it’s good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here are the estimated nutritional values for a serving of this wonderful pesto chicken pasta:

Calories: 450
Fat: 18g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 3g

Keep in mind that these are just estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. If you’re using homemade pesto or different pasta shapes, the values might shift a bit. But knowing these numbers can help you enjoy your meal with a little more awareness. Happy eating!

Variations of Pesto Chicken Pasta

The beauty of pesto chicken pasta is its versatility—there’s so much room for creativity! If you’re looking to switch things up, why not try different proteins? Grilled shrimp or sautéed salmon can add a delightful twist, while chickpeas offer a hearty, vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying.

As for veggies, the sky’s the limit! Toss in some fresh spinach or kale for a nutrient boost, or add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor. You could even throw in some artichokes for a Mediterranean flair. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of pesto like sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto for a unique taste!

Remember, cooking is all about expressing yourself, so don’t hesitate to mix and match until you find your perfect combination. Your kitchen should be a playground of flavors!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover pesto chicken pasta properly is key to keeping those delicious flavors intact! First, let the dish cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your pasta soggy. The pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is super easy! You can pop it in the microwave for a few minutes until warmed through, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. If you prefer a stovetop method, add a splash of olive oil or a little water to a skillet over medium heat, then toss in your pasta. This will help revive the flavors and keep it from drying out. Just heat it until everything is hot and fragrant!

And if you find yourself with more leftovers than you can eat, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy every last bite!

FAQ Section

Q1: How long can I store leftover pesto chicken pasta?
You can store leftover pesto chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing it up!

Q2: Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works wonderfully if you’re short on time. Just make sure to choose a good-quality brand for the best flavor.

Q3: What can I substitute for the chicken?
Feel free to swap out the chicken for other proteins like shrimp, salmon, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Each will bring a unique taste to the dish!

Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time—cook the pasta and chicken, and store them separately. Just combine them with the pesto and tomatoes right before serving for the freshest taste!

Q5: How can I make this a gluten-free dish?
To make pesto chicken pasta gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of great options available now that cook up beautifully!

pesto chicken pasta - detail 1