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One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 77 reviews

A comforting and flavorful one-pot creamy pesto chicken pasta that combines tender chicken breast, rotini pasta, and a rich blend of pesto, Parmesan, and cream, all cooked together for an easy and delicious weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced

Pasta and Grains

  • 12 oz rotini pasta

Liquids

  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Flavorings and Fats

  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until it is lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add pasta and broth: Pour in the rotini pasta and chicken broth to the pot with the chicken. Bring everything to a boil.
  3. Simmer pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook until the pasta is tender, about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Mix in creamy pesto: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream, pesto, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined and creamy.
  5. Warm through and season: Place the pot back on low heat and warm the mixture gently to your desired temperature. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Serve the creamy pesto chicken pasta immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
  • You can use fresh basil pesto or store-bought pesto depending on your preference.
  • To add vegetables, consider stirring in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the last few minutes of simmering.
  • Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • This recipe pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy pesto chicken, quick dinner, Italian chicken pasta, weeknight meal, rotini pasta

Find it online: https://nayabaker.com/one-pot-creamy-pesto-chicken-pasta-recipe/