Name: Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 chicken breast (diced); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 15 oz tomato sauce; 6 oz pesto; 1/3 cup light cream; 1 cup roasted red peppers (chopped); 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 balls burrata (4 ounces each)

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 3 reviews

If you are craving a dish that radiates comfort and gourmet flavors all in one, this Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe is your perfect go-to. It’s a delightful melody of tender rigatoni pasta enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce made from rich tomato sauce, vibrant pesto, and a touch of cream. The addition of savory seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and fresh spinach brings a beautiful balance of textures and colors that will make your taste buds sing with joy. Each bite is a warm hug on a plate that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for entertaining friends or family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top-down view of various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with raw chicken pieces that are pale pink and chunky. Around it, there are several white bowls with different ingredients: two white mozzarella balls on the top left, sliced red roasted peppers on the top right, fresh green spinach leaves on the bottom left, and sun-dried tomatoes on the bottom right. Small bowls hold finely minced garlic, olive oil, and mixed dried herbs and spices, including black pepper, pink salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. A larger white bowl contains bright red tomato sauce, and a measuring cup holds a white liquid, likely cream or milk. On the right side, there is a box of rigatoni pasta, predominantly white with red accents. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

One of the joys of making this Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe is how simple and thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each component has a starring role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and vibrant color that makes this dish so irresistible.

1 lb rigatoni: The ridged surface of rigatoni holds the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness while helping to sear the chicken to perfection.
1 chicken breast (diced): Provides tender protein and soaks up the delicious seasoning and sauce flavors.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the chicken with warmth and depth.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory notes that pair perfectly with the tomato and pesto.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: A gentle kick that adds subtle heat without overwhelming the dish.
1/2 tsp salt: Brings out the flavor of all the ingredients.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds mild earthiness and spice to the chicken seasoning.
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): Imparts a concentrated, sweet-tart punch of tomato flavor.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic elevates the sauce with aromatic richness.
15 oz tomato sauce: The base of the sauce that ties everything together with rich umami.
6 oz pesto: Brings herbal brightness and creamy texture to the sauce blend.
1/3 cup light cream: Creates that signature luscious creaminess without feeling too heavy.
1 cup roasted red peppers (chopped): Adds smoky sweetness and lovely color contrast.
2 cups fresh spinach: For a pop of fresh green and added nutrition.
2 balls burrata (4 ounces each): The crowning glory! Creamy, dreamy, and perfect for melting over the pasta.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. This is key because salting the water helps flavor the pasta from the inside out. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, then carefully reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water will come in handy later to adjust your sauce consistency perfectly.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and let it sear undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes to build a beautiful golden crust. Sprinkle on the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, tossing everything together before searing for another 2 minutes. This seasoning step will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor that becomes the soul of the dish.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

To the chicken pan, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. Then pour in the tomato sauce, pesto, and light cream, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer—this melding of creamy tomato and herbal pesto is going to coat the pasta spectacularly.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Combine

Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and fresh spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts and the veggies are tender but vibrant. Now add your cooked rigatoni, tossing everything well to ensure each piece is luxuriously coated with the sauce. If it seems too thick, splash in a little reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Plate and Finish with Burrata

Spoon the pasta onto plates or into shallow bowls. Top each serving with half a ball of burrata; as soon as it hits the warm pasta, the creamy cheese starts to melt and enrich this stunning dish even further. This final touch transforms the meal into something truly special and indulgent.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe

A white pan filled with three layers of food: the bottom layer is a thick orange sauce with a smooth texture, on the left side there are bright red, sliced bell peppers stacked in small pieces, and the top layer is fresh, vibrant green spinach leaves piled high on the right side. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. The lighting is clear and natural, highlighting the fresh colors of the ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe, sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or parsley on top. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese can add a delightful finishing touch. These garnishes brighten the dish and add layers of fresh flavor and aroma that will impress everyone at your table.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette, or some garlic bread to mop up every last drop of sauce. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini also complement the creamy, herbaceous flavors perfectly without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stylish presentation, serve the pasta in wide pasta bowls to showcase the colorful ingredients and the melting burrata. You can also add a small ramekin of extra pesto or chili flakes on the side for guests who love to customize their plate. Serving this dish family-style on a large platter invites everyone to dig in and makes the meal feel warm and communal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious. Keep the burrata separate if possible and add fresh cheese only when reheating or serving for the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to save leftovers for longer, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Because of the cream and cheese, the texture might slightly change upon thawing, so a gentle reheating method is recommended. Avoid freezing the burrata; it’s best to add this fresh after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also use a microwave, covering the dish loosely and stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Add fresh burrata or a sprinkle of cheese after warming for that creamy finish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal because of its shape that holds the sauce well, you can substitute penne, fusilli, or even farfalle based on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain al dente texture.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for protein. The creamy tomato pesto sauce is so flavorful, the dish will still feel hearty and satisfying without meat.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta and chicken. Adding fresh spinach and roasted red peppers at the last moment keeps the colors bright and vegetables crisp.

What can I substitute for burrata?

If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be tasty alternatives. They won’t be as creamy but still add a lovely milky richness that complements the sauce nicely.

How spicy is the finished dish?

The recipe has just a hint of heat thanks to the red pepper flakes, making it pleasantly mild and approachable for most palates. You can always increase the flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.

Final Thoughts

I hope this article inspires you to dive into making the Creamy Tomato Pesto Pasta with Chicken Recipe soon. It’s one of those rare dishes that feels indulgent and comforting while coming together so simply. Perfect for a nourishing weeknight dinner or when you want to impress without the fuss. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home just like it is in mine!