One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
A delicious and simple one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant pasta, and a creamy pesto sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 breasts chicken breasts Sear until golden brown and cooked through.
- 8 oz pasta Any preferred type; cook according to package instructions.
- 1 cup pesto sauce Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a rich creamy sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth Used to cook pasta and add flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes Optional; adds sweetness and freshness.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
- to taste Parmesan cheese For serving; adds a salty, nutty finish.
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the chicken breasts. Sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Cooking the Pasta
- In the same pot, add chicken broth and bring to a rolling boil.
- Once boiling, introduce the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Making the Sauce
- Reduce heat to low and stir in pesto sauce and heavy cream until well combined.
Combining Ingredients
- Slice the cooked chicken and return to the pot. Stir in cherry tomatoes, if using, and season with salt and pepper.
Serving
- Spoon into bowls or plates and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Optionally drizzle with more pesto or olive oil.
Notes
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or onions with the chicken. Variations include substituting chicken with shrimp or adding seasonal vegetables.