Go Back

One-Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Looking for a delicious and time-saving meal? Try One-Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta! This flavorful dish combines juicy chicken, tender penne pasta, and a vibrant pesto sauce, all cooked together for minimal cleanup. With nutritious ingredients like spinach and cherry tomatoes, it offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s simple enough for novice cooks and sure to please the entire family. Enjoy a savory adventure today!
Print Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

8 ounces (about 2 cups) penne pasta

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup baby spinach

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

    Cook Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

      Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the penne pasta to the skillet, stirring well. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

        Make it Creamy: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and pesto sauce until well combined. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

          Add Veggies and Chicken: Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and cooked chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach has wilted.

            Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings