Easy One Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta

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One Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta: Quick, Creamy, and Flavor-Packed

If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and flavorful dinner, this One Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta is the perfect solution. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy pesto sauce all cooked in a single pot, you’ll enjoy less cleanup without sacrificing taste. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

The beauty of a one-pot pasta recipe is how the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce as it cooks, creating a rich, cohesive dish. The combination of basil pesto, chicken, garlic, and a hint of cream makes this pasta dish both satisfying and indulgent, yet simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Minimal cleanup – Everything cooks in one pot.
  • Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
  • Creamy and flavorful – Pesto and cream coat every bite of pasta.
  • Customizable – Add vegetables, different cheeses, or extra protein.
  • Family-friendly – Loved by adults and kids alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken and Pasta

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 ounces (340 g) pasta of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
  • 3 cups chicken broth or water

For the Pesto Sauce

  • 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, or spinach for extra veggies

Optional Garnishes

  • Extra grated Parmesan
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep saucepan over medium-high heat.
  2. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  3. Add chicken to the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
  4. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Prepare the Pasta

  1. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add uncooked pasta and chicken broth (or water), making sure the liquid covers the pasta.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
  4. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

3. Make it Creamy and Flavorful

  1. Reduce heat to low and return cooked chicken to the pan.
  2. Stir in basil pesto, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Mix thoroughly until pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy pesto sauce.
  4. Add optional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or spinach, allowing them to warm through.

4. Serve

  1. Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
  2. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta

  • Use a large pan – A wide, deep skillet ensures even cooking of pasta and sauce.
  • Don’t overcook pasta – Check pasta a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid mushy noodles.
  • Homemade vs. store-bought pesto – Homemade pesto gives a fresher flavor, but store-bought is convenient and works well.
  • Add vegetables – Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini increase nutrition and color.
  • Adjust creaminess – More cream makes it richer, while less keeps it lighter.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side dishes – Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
  • Family-style – Serve directly from the pan for a casual, comforting meal.
  • Meal prep – Portion into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
  • Garnish options – Fresh herbs, extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil add visual appeal and flavor.

Creative Variations

  1. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto – Add sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy twist.
  2. Spicy Pesto Pasta – Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  3. Veggie-Packed – Include roasted bell peppers, broccoli, or asparagus for extra nutrients.
  4. Cheesy Overload – Mix in mozzarella or fontina cheese for a richer, gooey pasta.
  5. Protein Boost – Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or plant-based protein for variety.

Meal Prep and Storage

  • Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or cream to restore sauce consistency.
  • Freezing – Freeze cooked pasta and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
  • Quick assembly – Keep cooked chicken and prepped vegetables ready to shorten cooking time during busy nights.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Chicken – Provides lean protein and essential amino acids.
  • Basil pesto – Contains healthy fats from olive oil and nuts.
  • Vegetables – Cherry tomatoes, spinach, or other added veggies increase fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Pasta – Whole-grain options boost fiber content for added satiety.

This one-pot dish is filling, flavorful, and nutrient-rich, making it ideal for a balanced weeknight dinner.

Why This Recipe Works

One Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta works because:

  • Flavor absorption – Pasta cooks in broth and absorbs the essence of garlic and pesto.
  • Creamy consistency – Pesto, cream, and Parmesan create a rich, cohesive sauce.
  • Simple, wholesome ingredients – Fresh chicken, pasta, and vegetables make a healthy yet indulgent dish.
  • Versatility – Adaptable for different vegetables, proteins, and spice levels.

The result is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s both quick and elegant.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

  • Individual plates – Twirl pasta into nests for a restaurant-style presentation.
  • Family-style – Serve straight from the pot for casual dining.
  • Garnish tips – Sprinkle extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and a few cherry tomatoes on top for a vibrant, appealing dish.
  • Pairings – Serve with crusty bread, a light salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta is a must-try for anyone craving a quick, delicious, and comforting meal. With tender chicken, flavorful pesto, and creamy pasta cooked in a single pot, it’s a dinner that comes together in no time and pleases every palate.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this recipe delivers flavor, convenience, and satisfaction. With its versatility and minimal cleanup, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

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