This One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta is a fuss-free meal that packs in flavor and convenience. Juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and tasty pesto come together in one dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for something lighter, you could use turkey breast instead. Tofu or chickpeas are great plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.
Pasta: I used penne because its shape holds the sauce well. If you want a gluten-free version, swap it out for gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a healthier twist!
Pesto: Store-bought pesto is quick and convenient. If you’re making your own, fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese work beautifully. If you don’t have pine nuts, walnuts or even sunflower seeds can work well too.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a pop of color and sweetness. You can use diced regular tomatoes or even other veggies like bell peppers if you’re looking for a twist.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly in One Pan?
Cooking pasta in one pan with everything else might sound tricky, but it’s quite simple! The key is to ensure that the pasta has enough liquid to cook through without getting mushy.
- Start by browning the chicken and sautéing the garlic in olive oil.
- Add pasta with chicken broth and water; make sure the pasta is fully submerged.
- Bring it to a boil first, then lower the heat to let it simmer to cook the pasta evenly and absorb flavors.
- Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
How to Make One Pan Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30-35 minutes. In just one pan, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Make sure not to burn the garlic to keep it flavorful!
3. Add the Pasta and Liquid:
Next, add the penne pasta, chicken broth, and water to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring that the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
5. Combine with Vegetables:
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften a little.
6. Mix in the Pesto:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the basil pesto, making sure to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the delicious sauce.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the dish and add more salt and pepper if necessary for your preferred flavor.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top and serve warm. Enjoy this tasty one-pan meal!
Happy cooking! This dish is not only easy but also packed with flavor!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative with your veggies! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even broccoli would be delicious additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the dish’s moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and substituting it with chickpeas, tofu, or more vegetables. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything cooks evenly!
