Creamy Pesto Chicken Alfredo is a rich and comforting pasta dish that brings together the silky smoothness of Alfredo sauce with the bold, herbal notes of basil pesto. Combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, this satisfying meal delivers classic Italian-American flavors in every bite—ideal for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy and vibrant. The pesto adds a fresh twist to traditional Alfredo, while Parmesan cheese creates a luscious, cheesy sauce. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it comes together quickly and leaves everyone at the table feeling full and happy. It’s a versatile dish that’s both elegant and family-friendly.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the pasta:
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penne or fettuccine pasta
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salt (for boiling water)
For the chicken:
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boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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olive oil
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salt
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pepper
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garlic powder
For the Alfredo sauce:
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butter
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garlic, minced
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heavy cream
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grated Parmesan cheese
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basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
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salt and pepper
Optional garnish:
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fresh basil leaves
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extra Parmesan cheese
Directions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. -
Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. -
Add Cheese and Pesto
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and basil pesto. Let the sauce cook for 3–4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Combine and Heat Through
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy pesto Alfredo sauce. Allow it to warm through for 1–2 minutes before serving. -
Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
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Calories: Approximately 540 kcal per serving
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for a spicy edge.
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Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes.
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Low-Carb Version: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cooked spaghetti squash.
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Nut-Free Pesto: Use a pesto made without pine nuts for allergy-friendly adaptation.
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Lighter Sauce: Replace half of the cream with whole milk or use a light cream alternative.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving for extended periods, as it can affect the texture of the cream sauce.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken works well. Simply add it during the final heating step to avoid overcooking.
What pasta shapes work best?
Fettuccine, penne, or any pasta that holds sauce well will work for this dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the components in advance, but it’s best assembled fresh to maintain the sauce’s texture.
Is it okay to use jarred pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto is convenient and flavorful, though homemade adds a fresher taste.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal to freeze cream-based sauces as they can separate. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Cook the sauce gently over low to medium heat and avoid boiling after adding the cream.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half or full-fat milk can be used, but the sauce may be thinner and less rich.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, steamed or sautéed broccoli, spinach, or peas make excellent additions.
Is Parmesan necessary?
Parmesan is traditional and adds flavor, but other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano may be used as substitutes.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken should be golden on the outside and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Creamy Pesto Chicken Alfredo is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings together rich dairy, bold basil, and tender chicken for a satisfying meal that’s ready in just over half an hour. Whether served as a cozy family dinner or an elegant date-night entrée, it’s a guaranteed favorite with crowd-pleasing flavor and minimal fuss.
[tasty-recipe id=”18555″]