This One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta is a simple and tasty meal ready in no time! You get juicy chicken, pasta, and basil pesto all cooked together without much fuss.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that only uses one pan? Clean-up is a breeze, and I can still enjoy a cozy night on the couch with my favorite show! 😊
I like to throw in some cherry tomatoes and spinach for extra color and flavor. It’s quick, yummy, and perfect for busy weeknights! Give it a try and feel like a kitchen superstar!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne works great here, but feel free to use other shapes like fusilli or even whole wheat pasta for added fiber. If gluten-free is needed, corn or rice pasta will do just fine!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook, but thighs are juicier if that’s your preference. Tofu or chickpeas can be swapped in for a vegetarian option, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Pesto Sauce: Homemade pesto is fantastic, but store-bought saves time. If you want a nut-free option, look for sunflower seed pesto or simply substitute with a little olive oil and fresh herbs.
Broccoli: If you’re not a fan of broccoli, try green beans or spinach instead. They both cook well and add lots of color!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly in One Pan?
Cooking pasta in one pan is all about balance! Here’s how to do it well:
- Start by heating the oil and cooking the chicken first for flavor, then take it out of the pan to avoid overcooking.
- Add garlic next for flavor, and be careful not to burn it; around 30 seconds is perfect.
- When you add the pasta and liquids, ensure everything is at a gentle boil. This helps the pasta absorb the flavors better!
- Keep an eye on the liquid levels. Stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick. If it looks dry, add a splash more broth or water.
Following these tips will help your pasta turn out just right every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 2 cups dry pasta (such as penne, casarecce, or similar)
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
Liquids and Sauce:
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Seasoning and Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Keep an eye on it, as you want it fragrant but not burnt!
3. Add Pasta and Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to add some excitement! Add the dry pasta to the pan along with the cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets (if you’re using them). Pour in the chicken broth (or water) to cover the pasta.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the pasta to be al dente and for most of the liquid to be absorbed.
5. Mix in the Chicken and Pesto:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir the chicken back into the pan along with the pesto sauce. Mix everything together until it’s well coated and heated through. This is where the magic happens!
6. Add Cheese and Garnish:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, giving it a gentle stir to combine. Finish it off with garnish—fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese for that creamy touch.
Enjoy your delicious One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta! It’s a breeze to make, and cleanup is easy too!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use any short pasta like rotini or fusilli. For a gluten-free option, try corn or rice pasta instead.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and make a great substitute. For a vegetarian option, consider using tofu, chickpeas, or even sautéed mushrooms.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, follow the steps as usual. Just keep in mind that the pasta is best when fresh!
