Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe Everyone Will Love

This creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta recipe is a delicious way to bring together bold flavor and comfort food in one dish. With its tender chicken, rich pesto sauce, and creamy garlic undertones, it’s a quick go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. In this article, you’ll find everything from ingredient tips and cooking steps to creamy variations and storage instructions. Whether you’re making it gluten-free or protein-packed, we’ve got you covered—plus answers to your top questions at the end.

What Makes Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken Pasta So Popular?

Why this dish is a weeknight favorite

Creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta brings big flavor and minimal fuss to the dinner table. It’s a top choice for busy nights because it comes together quickly—usually in under 30 minutes—with simple ingredients like pasta, garlic, olive oil, chicken breast, and pesto. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the family, it’s satisfying, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable.

It also fits a variety of diets. You can use gluten-free pasta, dairy-free cream options, or toss in vegetables like spinach or zucchini. That makes this creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta perfect for anyone wanting a balanced and flavorful meal without extra prep.

Flavor profile: Creamy, herby, garlicky goodness

Each forkful of this creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta hits multiple notes. The sauce is rich yet fresh thanks to a pesto base blended with creamy ingredients like heavy cream or cottage cheese. The garlic infuses the dish with warmth, and the seared chicken adds savory bite.

The best part? You control the flavor intensity. Add more garlic for a bolder kick or extra pesto for a greener, nuttier twist. No matter how you tweak it, the taste stays cozy and vibrant—making it a reliable winner every time.

Ingredients You Need for Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken Pasta

Pantry staples and fresh ingredients

To make a flavorful creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta, you only need a handful of basic ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Purpose
Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs	Provides the savory protein base
Short Pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, or rotini)	Holds sauce better and cooks evenly
Fresh Garlic (3–4 cloves)	Adds aromatic depth to the dish
Olive Oil	For sautéing chicken and garlic
Pesto (store-bought or homemade)	Brings fresh basil, parmesan, and pine nut flavors
Heavy Cream or Cottage Cheese	Creates the creamy base of the sauce
Salt and Pepper	Essential seasoning for balance
Parmesan Cheese (optional)	Adds a sharp, cheesy finish

Using fresh garlic and a good-quality pesto sauce is key. The better the ingredients, the better the sauce clings to your pasta. You can even add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness if desired.

For those looking for protein-rich sauces, our creamy cottage cheese pasta sauce is a clever way to create creamy pasta dishes without relying solely on cream.

Ingredient swaps for dairy-free or gluten-free diets

You don’t need to give up this creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta if you’re avoiding dairy or gluten. These swaps make it more inclusive without sacrificing flavor:

• Gluten-Free Pasta: Choose brown rice, corn-based, or quinoa pasta. Cook according to package instructions to prevent mushiness. We share full cooking tips here.
• Dairy-Free Cream Options: Use unsweetened coconut cream, almond cooking cream, or cashew cream. They all pair well with the herbal base of pesto.
• Pesto: Make homemade pesto without cheese or purchase dairy-free versions now widely available.

These options are helpful for families juggling multiple dietary needs while still craving something warm and satisfying. Curious about how to make complete gluten-free meals fast? Don’t miss our one-pan gluten-free meal ideas, perfect for weeknights.

How to Cook Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Cooking the chicken to juicy perfection

The heart of this creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta is well-cooked, flavorful chicken. Whether you use breast or thigh meat, the key is to season generously and avoid overcooking.

1. Slice the chicken into evenly sized strips or cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Season with salt and pepper, and optionally a bit of Italian seasoning.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken and sear until golden on all sides (about 5–6 minutes). Don’t overcrowd the pan.
4. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it and set aside.

This method locks in the juices and adds a golden crust that pairs well with the creamy pesto base.

If you’re preparing meals for the whole week, check out our protein-rich gluten-free chicken pad thai meal prep—a great complement to your pasta routine.

Combining sauce and pasta for the creamiest finish

Once your chicken is ready, it’s time to build the sauce and pasta combo that gives this dish its creamy, garlicky signature.

1. In the same pan (with those flavorful bits still in it), sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add 1 cup of heavy cream or blended cottage cheese. Stir to combine and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Lower the heat and stir in ½ cup of pesto. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and evenly green.
4. Meanwhile, boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, adding pasta water a bit at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir everything together and let it sit for 1–2 minutes on low heat.

The result? Coated noodles, juicy chicken, and a silky, herby sauce in every bite.

Want a protein-boost without heavy cream? Try blending cottage cheese like in our cottage cheese protein bowl—you can even use the same technique here.

Tips to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Even Better

Best pasta shapes and why they matter

Choosing the right pasta shape adds a surprising amount of impact to your creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta. The texture of the pasta helps trap the sauce, pesto, and chicken in each bite, making the dish more flavorful.

Top picks for creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta:

• Penne: With hollow centers, penne captures creamy sauces easily.
• Fusilli: Similar to rotini but denser—ideal for a thicker finish.
• Shells: Scoop up chicken chunks and creamy sauce in every spoonful.
• Spaghetti: The long, slender strands allow the creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta sauce to coat evenly and twirl beautifully on your fork.

Long noodles like fettuccine or spaghetti don’t work as well for this type of creamy sauce. You’ll get better results from short, sauce-grabbing shapes.

For more cozy dinner ideas, check out our satisfying gluten-free dinner ideas that pair well with creamy sauces.

Secret ingredients for deeper flavor

Even if you love your current version, there’s always room to upgrade your creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta. Try mixing in a few of these simple additions to intensify flavor:

• Sun-dried tomatoes: Add sweet-tangy depth that contrasts the creaminess.
• Red pepper flakes: Give the sauce a hint of spice.
• Lemon juice or zest: Lightens the richness without changing the base flavor.
• Cream cheese or ricotta: Enhances the creamy consistency without extra fat.
• Toasted pine nuts: Add crunch and a second layer of nutty flavor.

Try at least one or two of these options the next time you make creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta. You’ll notice the difference right away—and your family likely will too.

Looking for other cream-style pastas? Don’t miss our reader-favorite creamy cottage cheese pasta sauce, which blends perfectly with garlic and basil pesto.

This dish isn’t just creamy—it’s customizable. Whether you’re swapping ingredients or experimenting with texture, creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta is a recipe that grows with your tastes.

How to Make Pesto Sauce Creamier Without Heavy Cream

Cottage cheese, ricotta, or Greek yogurt?

If you’re trying to lighten up your creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta, there are plenty of alternatives to heavy cream. You can still achieve that rich, smooth texture without the fat content of traditional cream.

Here are three top substitutes:

• Cottage Cheese: When blended, it becomes ultra-creamy. It’s also high in protein and low in fat. We use it in multiple recipes like our high-protein cottage cheese egg bites for the same creamy effect.
• Ricotta Cheese: Its soft texture and mild flavor make it a great choice for creamy sauces.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: Best for a tangier version. Use full-fat for the creamiest results and whisk it in over low heat to prevent curdling.

You can blend any of these with a bit of olive oil or warm pasta water to thin it, then stir into pesto to upgrade the sauce.

Blending and emulsifying tips for smoothness

To keep the sauce from separating, it’s essential to emulsify the ingredients the right way. This ensures your creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta comes out velvety instead of oily or clumpy.

Tips for perfect results:

• Blend pesto and your creamy base before heating.
• Always add cream or substitutes on low heat—avoid boiling.
• Use reserved pasta water to bind and smooth the sauce.
• Finish with a gentle whisk instead of stirring with a spoon.

These steps ensure the creamy texture clings to every piece of pasta and chicken. Whether you’re using traditional cream or a cottage cheese blend, emulsification makes all the difference in a successful creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta.

Love the cottage cheese method? Try it in desserts like our gluten-free cottage cheese cookies too—it’s surprisingly versatile.

For those seeking better balance in flavor and nutrition, this creamy base alternative is a simple upgrade to your next creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta night.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

How long does creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta last in the fridge?

Properly stored, creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Use an airtight container and let the pasta cool to room temperature before sealing. If stored while still hot, steam buildup can cause sogginess or spoilage.

Labeling your container with the date helps track freshness. It’s best eaten within 2–3 days for the best flavor and texture, especially if you’ve used cream or cottage cheese in the sauce.

Want more tips on prepping make-ahead meals? Our family-friendly gluten-free meals guide includes time-saving storage hacks perfect for batch cooking.

Best ways to reheat without losing creaminess

Reheating creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta can be tricky. The sauce may separate or dry out if handled poorly. Here’s how to keep it just as creamy the second time:

Stovetop Method ( Best Option ):

1. Add a splash of milk, cream, or water to a skillet.
2. Toss in leftover pasta.
3. Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Microwave Method ( Quick Option ):

1. Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or broth.
3. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap.
4. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Avoid overheating. Low, slow reheating keeps the pesto and cream base from breaking apart.

Whether you’re enjoying leftovers the next day or prepping lunch for work, these reheating tips ensure your creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta stays just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

For a cold lunch option, try our cottage cheese overnight oats—they’re fridge-friendly and high in protein, too.

Serving Suggestions and Meal Pairings

Best sides to serve with creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta

While creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta can stand alone as a full meal, pairing it with a light, refreshing side dish brings balance to your plate. Since the pasta is rich and savory, fresh vegetables and crisp textures make the best complements.

Top side ideas:

• Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans
• Garlic bread or gluten-free breadsticks
• Cherry tomato salad with balsamic glaze

For a lighter dinner, serve smaller portions of the pasta and double up on salad or roasted veggies. You’ll still enjoy all the flavor without the heaviness.

Need inspiration for easy sides? Our roundup of easy gluten-free sides has flavorful options ready in under 20 minutes.

How to plate and garnish for extra appeal

Presentation matters, especially when serving guests or sharing your dish online. Luckily, creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta is naturally colorful—but a few simple garnishes take it to the next level:

• Fresh basil: Add whole leaves or chopped for brightness.
• Extra parmesan: Grated or shaved cheese adds visual appeal and flavor.
• Toasted pine nuts: Sprinkled on top for a nutty crunch.
• Cracked black pepper: Adds aroma and contrast to the cream.

For plating, use shallow pasta bowls and twirl the pasta with tongs into a mound. Lay chicken pieces on top, and drizzle with a little leftover pesto or olive oil.

Whether you’re serving family dinner or a casual gathering, these small details make your creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta look as good as it tastes.

Serving brunch or planning ahead? Our sheet pan spinach egg white wraps also pair well with light salads and veggie sides for a complete spread.

Nutrition Breakdown and Dietary Variations

How healthy is creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta?

While indulgent, creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta can be a balanced meal when prepared thoughtfully. It contains protein from chicken, carbs from pasta, and healthy fats from pesto and olive oil.

Here’s a general estimate per serving (based on 2 cups):

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	550–650
Protein	30–35g
Carbohydrates	40–50g
Fat	30g (mainly from pesto/cream)
Fiber	3–5g

The exact numbers vary based on your pasta type, sauce base, and portion size. Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt lowers fat and increases protein, making it ideal for high-protein diets.

Want a naturally high-protein, low-fat recipe? Our cottage cheese protein bowl delivers exactly that, using many of the same ingredients found in this pasta dish.

Adapting creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta for special diets

One reason people love creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta is how easy it is to customize for various dietary needs. Here’s how to make it work for everyone at your table:

For gluten-free eaters:

• Use brown rice pasta, chickpea pasta, or quinoa pasta.
• Cook just until al dente to avoid mushiness.

For dairy-free diets:

• Use unsweetened coconut cream or cashew cream.
• Look for dairy-free pesto or make your own with basil, nuts, garlic, and olive oil.

For low-carb plans:

• Swap pasta with spiralized zucchini or hearts of palm pasta.
• Use lean chicken breast and reduce oil quantity in the sauce.

These swaps help maintain the flavor of your creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta without limiting your dietary goals.

Looking for other delicious gluten-free recipes? Try our vegetarian gluten-free recipes loaded with simple, clean ingredients.

FAQs

Conclusion

Creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or special gatherings. It’s rich, flavorful, and easy to adapt to your dietary needs—whether you’re going gluten-free, cutting dairy, or increasing protein. With the right pasta shape, fresh ingredients, and creamy swaps like cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, you can make this dish taste indulgent without compromising nutrition.

From storing leftovers the right way to upgrading your sauce with secret ingredients, this dish is endlessly flexible. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or meal prepping for the week, this is one recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Meet Emily Culino

Emily Culino is the recipe developer behind Easy Cooking US. As a gluten-free home cook and mother of two, she shares practical, high-protein meals that actually taste good. Her go-to dinner? You guessed it—creamy garlic pesto chicken pasta. She believes healthy food should be simple, budget-friendly, and full of flavor you’ll crave.

👉 Follow Emily on Pinterest, Medium, Tumblr, and X (Twitter) for more weekly inspiration.

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