One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
This One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, al dente penne, and a luscious creamy pesto sauce all come together in one skillet for an easy and flavorful dinner in just 25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 lb. penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 3 oz. cream cheese, cut into chunks
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup sliced sun dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. In a deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are slightly browned on the outside.
- Add Garlic: Mince the garlic while the chicken cooks. Add the garlic to the skillet with the chicken, sautéing for an additional one minute to enhance the flavor.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Add the uncooked penne pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to dissolve any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cover with a lid, increase heat to medium-high, and bring to a boil.
- Simmer Pasta: Once boiling, stir the pasta, cover again, and reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer for about 8 minutes or until the pasta is tender and most of the broth is absorbed. Stir every two minutes, replacing the lid quickly each time to retain heat and moisture.
- Add Creamy Ingredients and Pesto: After the pasta is tender, add the milk, cream cheese chunks, and pesto. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cream cheese melts fully into a creamy sauce. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Add Optional Ingredients and Final Seasoning: If using, stir in fresh spinach and sun dried tomatoes. Cook until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and season with freshly cracked pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat before serving.
Notes
- Stirring the pasta regularly ensures even cooking and prevents it from sticking to the skillet.
- Using fresh spinach adds a nutritious boost and vibrant color to the dish.
- Sun dried tomatoes provide a sweet and tangy contrast and can be omitted if preferred.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- This recipe is best enjoyed immediately to maintain the creamy texture.
