One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are super convenient for this dish. If you’d rather use thighs for a juicier flavor, go ahead! Rotisserie chicken can also save time if you want it pre-cooked.

Pasta: Penne works well because its shape holds sauce nicely. Substitutes are easy: try fusilli or farfalle for a different touch. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is quick and tasty, but homemade can really elevate the dish. If you want a dairy-free option, look for vegan pesto or make your own using nuts and olive oil without cheese.

Heavy Cream: You could swap this for half-and-half or even a plant-based cream if you’re looking for lower fat or dairy-free options. The cream adds richness that makes the dish hearty.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred for its flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can work for a sharp taste, especially if you’re vegan.

How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Cooked Just Right?

Cooking pasta perfectly can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right. Keep an eye on the pot and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Here’s a simple step to follow:

• Make sure to add enough liquid when you cook the pasta; it should be submerged. Check the package for cooking times.
• Sample a piece a minute or two before the time is up to ensure it’s al dente, which means it should still have a bite.
• After cooking, let the pasta rest with the lid on for a few minutes off the heat. This helps absorb any remaining liquid and makes it perfect!

How to Make One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Main Dish:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe will take approximately 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. This will help the chicken cook evenly and get a nice golden color.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Season your sliced chicken strips with salt and pepper for flavor. Add the chicken to the hot pan and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s browned and cooked all the way through. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Garlic:

In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want it to become fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!

4. Combine the Pasta and Ingredients:

Now, add the penne pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, chicken broth (or water), and heavy cream to the skillet. Give it a good stir to combine everything well.

5. Cook the Pasta:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

6. Stir in the Pesto:

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the pesto sauce. Mix it well until every piece of pasta is nicely coated with that delicious pesto flavor.

7. Add Chicken and Spinach:

Now, add the cooked chicken strips back to the skillet along with the fresh spinach leaves. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the dish is heated through. It should look colorful and inviting!

8. Finish with Cheese:

Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish and taste to see if it needs more salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

9. Garnish and Serve:

To make it look even more appealing, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve the pasta warm, topped with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Your flavorful and creamy One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta is ready to enjoy! Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing your guests!

Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular penne with gluten-free pasta, just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free varieties may cook faster or slower.

What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, feel free to use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or plain water. Just be aware that using water may result in a less rich taste, so consider adding a touch of seasoning to compensate.

Can I Add More Vegetables to the Dish?

Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the garlic to make sure they soften before adding the pasta.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry to help revive the creaminess.