Creamy Chicken Pesto Rigatoni: Rich, Herby, and Weeknight-Ready

A One-Pan Pasta Packed With Flavor, Herbs, and Comfort

Looking for a pasta dish that hits every craving? This Creamy Chicken Pesto Rigatoni is everything—savory, herby, rich, and totally satisfying. Juicy pan-seared chicken, tender rigatoni, and a velvety pesto cream sauce come together with sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach for the perfect weeknight dinner or cozy Sunday meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast, diced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp marjoram
• ½ tsp oregano
• ¼ tsp dill weed
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup basil pesto sauce
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• ½ cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated

Add-Ins:

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 lb rigatoni pasta, cooked al dente

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, season diced chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, marjoram, oregano, dill weed, basil, and paprika.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and mix until evenly coated.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil, then sear the chicken until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt butter, then add chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Stir until smooth.
2. Add basil pesto, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
3. Stir in grated Parmigiano Reggiano and simmer on low until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
2. Add sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach, letting the spinach wilt slightly.
3. Fold in cooked rigatoni pasta, tossing to coat everything in the sauce.

Pro Tips and Serving Suggestions

• Swap rigatoni with penne or farfalle if preferred.
• For extra richness, add a spoonful of pesto on top before serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmigiano for the ultimate finish.
• Serve with garlic bread or a light arugula salad for a complete meal.

About the Creator

Dana is all about turning everyday meals into moments of comfort and joy. As a home cook and busy mom, she brings warmth and flavor to practical dishes that anyone can recreate.

Follow theworkinghousemom on Instagram.

Dana Kelley | theworkinghousemom