One‑Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

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One‑Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta: Quick & Delicious Dinner

Introduction

Looking for a simple, comforting, and flavorful meal? This One‑Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy pesto sauce in a single pot. Ready in just 25–30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy dinner.

What makes this recipe special is its one-pot convenience and bold flavor. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing the aromatic basil, garlic, and Parmesan notes, while the chicken remains tender and juicy. This method creates a creamy, satisfying dish with minimal cleanup, perfect for anyone who wants a delicious, fuss-free meal.

This pasta is versatile. Serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete, balanced dinner. Its creamy texture, vibrant flavor, and one-pot ease make it a recipe you’ll want to prepare over and over again.

Origins and Background

Pesto, originating from Liguria, Italy, is traditionally made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Combining pesto with creamy sauces and pasta has become a modern favorite, particularly for home cooks seeking quick and flavorful meals.

Fun fact: Cooking the pasta in the sauce allows the noodles to absorb all the flavors, creating a cohesive dish where every bite is perfectly seasoned. One-pot pasta meals like this are popular worldwide because they maximize flavor while minimizing cooking time and cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup, everything cooks together.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Creamy & Flavorful: Rich pesto sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta.
Family-Friendly: Mild yet aromatic flavors appeal to adults and kids alike.
Customizable: Add vegetables or swap pasta types for variety.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers for lunches or dinners.
Nutritious & Balanced: Protein from chicken, carbs from pasta, and healthy fats from pesto.

Ingredients & Equipment

For the Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

  • 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 300 g (10–12 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • ½ cup prepared basil pesto
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or deep sauté pan with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Pro Tips

  • Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
  • Use your favorite pasta type or gluten-free option.
  • Adjust creaminess by varying the amount of cream or broth.
  • Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes until lightly browned on all sides.

2. Add Pasta and Liquids

Add uncooked pasta to the skillet, then pour in chicken broth and cream. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged in liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Cook Pasta in the Sauce

Cover skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and chicken is fully cooked. Adjust liquid as needed to ensure pasta cooks evenly without drying out.

4. Stir in Pesto

Remove from heat and stir in the prepared basil pesto until evenly combined. The sauce should be creamy and coat the pasta and chicken completely.

5. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Chicken Undercooked: Cut into smaller pieces and cook until internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  • Pasta Too Dry: Add extra broth or cream gradually while cooking.
  • Flavor Too Mild: Increase pesto or garlic for more intensity.
  • Sauce Too Thick: Stir in a little extra chicken broth or cream.
  • Sticking to Pan: Stir frequently and use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet.

Variations & Customizations

  • Extra Vegetables: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or peas for color and nutrients.
  • Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
  • Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño.
  • Herb Twist: Fresh parsley or oregano can enhance flavor.
  • Cheesy Version: Stir in extra Parmesan or mozzarella for richness.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

Serve One-Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta directly from the skillet for a rustic feel or plate individually for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Pair with a crisp side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal. Arranging pasta and chicken evenly with a drizzle of pesto over the top makes it visually appealing and appetizing.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
  • Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare chicken and vegetables in advance; cook pasta fresh for optimal texture.
  • Freezing: Can freeze, but sauce may separate slightly; reheat gently while stirring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A: Yes, prepared basil pesto works perfectly and saves time.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

Q: Can I prepare this for meal prep?
A: Yes, store chicken and pasta in containers and reheat when ready to eat.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, peas, or cherry tomatoes work well.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick, delicious, and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, flavorful pesto sauce come together in a one-pot, fuss-free dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Try it tonight for a stress-free, aromatic, and hearty dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, delivering bold flavor, vibrant color, and minimal cleanup.

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