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A close-up, overhead view of creamy pesto chicken pasta featuring penne, sliced chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

This recipe provides a satisfying, creamy pesto chicken pasta that you can make quickly. It balances rich flavor with simple preparation for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 pinch Kosher salt big pinch
  • 1 pinch Black pepper big pinch
For the Pasta and Sauce
  • 8 ounces penne pasta preferably with ridges
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes drained if packed in oil
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto homemade or quality store-bought, plus more if you like
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or up to 1 teaspoon
  • 1 handful torn basil leaves for garnish

Equipment

  • Medium pot
  • Large non-stick skillet
  • Bowl

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken in a bowl. Season with the Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly.
  2. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add about 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following the package directions (about 8 to 9 minutes).
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, tossing occasionally, until the outside is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes.
  4. When the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  5. Reduce the heat under the chicken pan. Stir in the cooked pasta, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun dried tomatoes. Stir until all ingredients are combined. If the mixture seems dry, add the reserved pasta cooking water a couple of tablespoons at a time until the pasta is glossy and coated in the sauce.
  6. Turn off the heat and remove the pan from the burner. Stir in the basil pesto. Finish the dish by sprinkling with grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, and basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 45gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

When transitioning to a low-carb or ketogenic diet, you might miss comforting pasta dishes. This recipe uses ingredients that provide a rich, creamy texture without relying on traditional high-carb pasta, allowing you to enjoy familiar flavors while meeting your health goals.

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