Save to Pinterest Creamy Pesto Chicken Tikka Pasta brings together the rich flavors of Indian spices with comforting Italian pasta in a bold and aromatic fusion. Smoky, spicy chicken tikka pieces are tossed with fusilli pasta, all coated in a creamy pesto sauce for a unique and satisfying main dish.
I first made this dish on a rainy weekend when I craved something cozy but didn&t want the usual. Each bite reminded me of both my grandmother&s spice-laden chicken curry and the creamy pasta dishes I loved while studying abroad.
Ingredients
- Chicken Tikka: 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks; 150 g (½ cup) plain yogurt; 1 tbsp tikka masala paste or spice mix; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp oil; Salt to taste
- Pasta & Sauce: 300 g (10 oz) fusilli pasta; 1 tbsp butter; 200 ml (¾ cup) heavy cream; 2 tbsp green pesto; 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan (optional); Salt and pepper to taste
- Garnish: Fresh basil or cilantro; Chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate and cook the chicken
- Mix chicken with yogurt, tikka spice, lemon juice, and salt. Marinate 15–30 minutes. Sauté in oil until fully cooked and slightly charred. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta
- Boil fusilli in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the pesto cream sauce
- In a skillet, melt butter. Add cream and pesto, stir until combined and warmed. Mix in Parmesan, if using. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine
- Add cooked pasta and chicken tikka to the sauce. Stir to coat evenly. Heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve
- Top with fresh herbs and chili flakes if desired.
Save to Pinterest When my cousin visited last winter, I made this pasta for our family dinner. Everyone loved pairing spicy chicken with creamy sauce, turning it into a new household favorite.
Required Tools
Pot for pasta, skillet, mixing bowl
Allergen Information
Contains: gluten (pasta), dairy (cream, yogurt, Parmesan)
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~620, Total Fat: 30 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 35 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest This dish is always a conversation starter and brings a burst of flavor to any dinner table. Enjoy the irresistible combination of aromatic spices and creamy Italian sauce!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide juicy chunks, but thighs also deliver excellent flavor and tenderness.
- → Can I substitute the pasta shape?
Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or rigatoni all work well with the creamy pesto sauce for a similar texture.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cream and vegan pesto to achieve a creamy sauce and maintain bold flavor.
- → What garnishes enhance the dish?
Fresh basil or cilantro adds brightness, while chili flakes bring subtle heat and color.
- → How spicy is this meal?
The dish is mildly spicy from tikka masala paste, but you can adjust heat with chili flakes or extra spices.
- → How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply swap out standard fusilli for a certified gluten-free pasta or a grain-free alternative.