One Pot Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
A delicious and easy one pot meal combining tender chicken, creamy basil pesto, and parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot non-stick
- 1 stirring spoon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces pasta penne or fusilli
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the pasta and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in basil pesto and heavy cream. Return chicken to the pot and mix well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serving
- Dish out the pasta onto plates, garnishing with extra parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Storage
- Allow any leftovers to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: To achieve the perfect creaminess, use freshly grated parmesan cheese. Ingredient Substitutions: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for variety. How to Serve: Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and pesto sauce in advance for quicker assembly.