North Italia Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Craving that luxurious, restaurant-quality pasta you fell in love with at North Italia? This copycat North Italia chicken pesto pasta recipe brings the beloved Italian dining experience straight to your home kitchen.

With tender, perfectly seasoned chicken breast nestled in creamy pesto sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni, this dish captures the essence of modern Italian-American cuisine. The combination of fresh basil pesto, rich parmesan cream sauce, and Creole-spiced chicken creates an unforgettable flavor experience that rivals the original.

Whether you’re a North Italia regular or discovering this delicious pasta dish for the first time, you’ll love how simple it is to recreate this restaurant favorite.

What Does It Taste Like?

The north italia pesto pasta delivers a harmonious blend of rich, herbaceous, and savory notes that dance on your palate. The creamy pesto sauce coats each piece of rigatoni with bright basil flavor mellowed by heavy cream and nutty parmesan cheese.

The chicken brings a subtle heat from Creole seasoning and paprika, adding a Cajun-inspired kick that beautifully contrasts the cool, herbal pesto. Each bite offers velvety texture from the cream sauce, the satisfying chew of al dente pasta, and tender chicken with a golden, slightly crispy exterior.

The garlic adds aromatic depth while Italian seasoning ties everything together with classic Mediterranean herbs.

North Italia Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken:

• 2 cups rigatoni pasta (or penne/tube pasta)
• 2 chicken breasts (medium-sized, boneless, skinless)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)

For the Seasoning Blend:

• ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
• ½ tablespoon paprika (sweet paprika recommended)

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1½ cups parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Kitchen Utensils

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining
• Medium skillet or sauté pan
• Small mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if using block parmesan)

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 3-4 servings

North Italia Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Boil water in a large pot then add some salt to the water. Once the water bubbles hard, add your rigatoni pasta. Cook it just like the package says, usually about 10–12 minutes. You want it to be al dente, which means it still has a little bite to it.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make them thinner, then slice into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, mix together Italian seasoning, Creole seasoning, and paprika. Use half of this mix to season the chicken pieces, rubbing it in well. Save the other half for later.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot and shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for about 6 minutes on one side without moving them to allow a golden crust to form. Flip and cook another 6 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Drain the Pasta When the pasta is done cooking, drain it in a colander. Rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from getting too soft.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce In the same skillet used for the chicken, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn). Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring and let it warm for 1 minute. Stir in the pesto until the sauce turns a rich green. Add the remaining seasoning mix and then slowly incorporate the parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Everything Return most of the chicken to the skillet, saving a few pieces for garnish. Add the drained pasta and gently stir to coat everything in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together.]

Step 7: Serve Top the pasta with the reserved chicken pieces. Serve hot and creamy right away.

Customization and Pairing for Serving Ideas

1. Protein Variations: Transform your chicken pesto pasta north italia style by swapping proteins. Grilled shrimp works beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce, cooking in just 3-4 minutes per side. Pan-seared salmon adds omega-3s and pairs wonderfully with basil. For vegetarians, substitute grilled portobello mushrooms or crispy chickpeas seasoned with the same Creole blend for that signature spicy kick.

2. Pasta Shape Options: While rigatoni captures the sauce perfectly, this north italia pesto pasta recipe adapts well to various shapes. Try farfalle (bowtie) for elegant presentation, penne for classic appeal, or fettuccine for a more luxurious texture. Cavatappi (corkscrew pasta) holds the creamy sauce exceptionally well in every twist.

3. Vegetable Additions: Boost nutrition and color by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or sautéed spinach into your copycat north italia chicken pesto pasta. Blistered cherry tomatoes add acidity that cuts through the richness, while roasted asparagus brings springtime freshness and textural contrast.

4. Wine Pairing: Serve this rich pasta alongside a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the creamy sauce. For red wine lovers, a light-bodied Chianti won’t overpower the delicate pesto flavors. A buttery Chardonnay complements the parmesan beautifully.

5. Classic Italian Pairing: Elevate your Chicken Pesto Pasta with the North Italia Garlic Bread Recipe and a fresh Caesar Salad. The warm, buttery garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy pesto sauce, while the crisp romaine, parmesan, and tangy dressing of the Caesar salad balance the richness of the pasta. This classic Italian combination is ideal for family dinners or a cozy date night at home.

6. Side Dish Companions: Complete your Italian feast with garlic bread for soaking up extra sauce, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness, or roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze for earthy depth.

7. Flavor Kick Upgrade: For those who love a spicy twist, drizzle your pasta or bread with the Bonchon Spicy Sauce Recipe. Pair it with a side of Friday’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe for a creamy, cheesy appetizer that enhances the meal. The combination of herby pesto, spicy notes, and savory dip creates a bold flavor profile that excites the taste buds.

9. Make it Lighter: Create a lighter version by substituting half-and-half for heavy cream, using whole wheat pasta, or increasing the vegetable-to-pasta ratio. Greek yogurt can replace some cream while adding protein and tang.

9. Asian Fusion Twist: Turn your Italian dinner into a unique fusion experience by serving the Chicken Pesto Pasta alongside Xian Noodles Recipe. The soft, flavorful noodles add a satisfying texture contrast and create a fun East-meets-West meal. Add a side of lightly sautéed vegetables to balance the richness, making it a complete and memorable dining experience.

10. Spice Level Adjustments: Dial up the heat by adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or using extra Cajun seasoning. For milder palates, reduce the Creole seasoning and replace with additional Italian herbs like oregano and basil.

Tips for Perfect North Italia Chicken Pesto Pasta

1. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your rigatoni, save at least one cup of starchy pasta cooking water. This liquid gold helps adjust sauce consistency and helps the pesto cream sauce cling better to the pasta. Add it tablespoon by tablespoon if your sauce seems too thick or breaks slightly.

2. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grate parmesan from a block yourself for this copycat north italia chicken pesto pasta recipe. The cheese will melt seamlessly into the cream, creating that signature velvety texture without graininess or separation.

3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Thin chicken pieces cook quickly and can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F, then remove immediately. Let it rest for 3-4 minutes before slicing so juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist throughout your north italia pesto pasta.

4. Temperature Control for Sauce: When making the creamy pesto sauce, keep heat at medium-low once you add the cream and cheese. High heat causes dairy to separate and become grainy. Gentle warming allows the parmesan to melt smoothly and the pesto to incorporate without losing its vibrant color or fresh flavor.

5. Quality Pesto Matters: Whether homemade or store-bought, pesto quality dramatically affects your final dish. Look for pesto with basil as the first ingredient, high-quality olive oil, and real parmesan. Refrigerated pesto typically tastes fresher than shelf-stable versions. If making homemade, toast the pine nuts first for deeper flavor.

6. Season in Layers: Don’t rely solely on the seasoning blend for flavor. Salt your pasta water generously (it should taste like the sea), season chicken adequately, and taste your sauce before serving. The Creole seasoning adds complexity, but proper salting at each stage builds depth that makes this north italia chicken pesto truly restaurant-quality.

7. Timing is Everything: Coordinate your cooking so pasta finishes just as you’re ready to make the sauce. The pasta should still be warm when combined with the creamy pesto, helping everything marry together beautifully. Cold pasta won’t absorb the sauce properly and can make your dish feel disjointed rather than cohesive.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover chicken pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency, as the pasta absorbs liquid while refrigerated.

Common Queries and FAQs

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the North Italia Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe that people often ask.

Can I make this north italia pesto pasta recipe ahead of time?

You can prep components separately. Cook and season the chicken, store it refrigerated up to 2 days ahead. Make the seasoning blend and have ingredients measured. However, the pasta and sauce are best prepared fresh since cream sauces don’t hold well. If you must make it completely ahead, undercook the pasta slightly and store sauce separately, combining when reheating with extra cream.

What’s the best substitute for Creole seasoning in this chicken pesto pasta north italia recipe?

Cajun seasoning works identically as it shares similar spice profiles. In a pinch, make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. Old Bay seasoning adds different but complementary flavors. Even simple garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper captures some of the essence.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this copycat north italia chicken pesto pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is traditional, penne, ziti, cavatappi, or farfalle all work beautifully. Tube-shaped or twisted pastas with ridges capture the creamy pesto sauce best. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair which become overwhelmed by the rich sauce. Long pastas like fettuccine create a different but equally delicious experience.

How do I prevent my pesto cream sauce from separating?

Keep heat low once dairy is added, never letting the sauce boil. Add parmesan gradually while stirring constantly. Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-grated. If separation occurs, remove from heat and whisk in a tablespoon of cold cream or add reserved pasta water while whisking vigorously to re-emulsify.

Is there a lighter version of this north italia pesto pasta?

Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of whole milk and cream cheese for body. Use less cheese or try a mix of parmesan and lower-fat mozzarella. Increase vegetables and reduce pasta quantity. Greek yogurt stirred in at the end adds creaminess with protein and less fat, though it changes the flavor profile slightly.

What kind of pesto works best for this recipe?

Traditional Genovese basil pesto with pine nuts, basil, parmesan, garlic, and olive oil is ideal. Store-bought works perfectly fine—look for refrigerated varieties for freshest flavor. Homemade pesto elevates the dish significantly. Avoid pesto that’s primarily oil with little basil, as it won’t provide enough herbal flavor for this north italia chicken pesto.

Can I freeze leftover chicken pesto pasta?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze particularly well as they can separate and become grainy when thawed. If you must freeze, slightly undercook the pasta, freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month, and expect texture changes. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently with added cream to restore consistency.

Why is my chicken tough in this copycat north italia chicken pesto pasta recipe?

Overcooking is the main culprit. Chicken breasts, especially when sliced thin, cook quickly. They’re done at 165°F internal temperature. Pounding them to even thickness ensures uniform cooking. Let chicken rest after cooking before slicing so juices don’t escape. Also, avoid moving chicken constantly while cooking—let it develop a crust undisturbed.

What side dishes pair well with north italia pesto pasta?

Light, acidic sides balance this rich pasta beautifully. Try an arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccolini, garlic bread for sauce-soaking, caprese salad for freshness, or Italian wedding soup as a starter. Avoid heavy, cream-based sides that compete with the pasta’s richness.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Traditional north italia chicken pesto pasta is cream and cheese-forward, making dairy-free versions challenging. Use coconut cream (full-fat from a can) instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. Dairy-free pesto is available, or make your own with cashews instead of parmesan. The result differs significantly but can still be delicious.

How do I know when my pasta is properly al dente?

Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian—the pasta should have slight resistance when bitten but not be crunchy or hard in the center. Start testing 2 minutes before the package’s minimum cook time. The pasta should bend without breaking and have a tiny white dot in the center when broken. Remember it continues cooking slightly when combined with hot sauce.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this north italia pesto pasta recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Remove the skin, shred or dice the meat, and toss it with the seasoning blend. Since it’s already cooked, simply warm it through in the sauce during the final step. You’ll miss the golden crust from pan-searing, but the convenience often outweighs this trade-off for busy weeknights.

This copycat north italia chicken pesto pasta recipe proves you don’t need a reservation to enjoy restaurant-quality Italian cuisine. With simple ingredients, straightforward techniques, and about 35 minutes, you can create this creamy, flavorful dish that rivals the original.

The combination of Creole-spiced chicken, vibrant pesto, and luscious parmesan cream sauce makes this pasta irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing guests, this north italia pesto pasta delivers every time. Now grab your skillet and bring the taste of North Italia home tonight!

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