Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne (One Pot)

If you’re craving a meal that’s rich, comforting, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne (One Pot) is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces nestled in a luscious, creamy pesto sauce, all mingling with perfectly cooked penne pasta. The best part? It all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze and dinner time stress-free. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish ticks all the boxes for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This dish has it all — creamy, cheesy, herby, and hearty. The pesto sauce brings a fresh, aromatic punch that elevates simple chicken and pasta to a whole new level. Because it’s made in one pot, the flavors have time to meld beautifully, resulting in a silky sauce that clings to every bite of penne. Plus, it’s customizable and quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Everyone loves a dish that tastes like it took hours but actually didn’t. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist!

Ingredient Breakdown

• 8 ounces penne pasta: The sturdy, tube-shaped pasta holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced: Lean and tender, chicken breast cooks quickly and absorbs the pesto cream sauce beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and sauté garlic, adding a subtle richness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory base that complements the pesto wonderfully.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture to cook the pasta and infuses gentle savory notes.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, velvety texture that makes this dish irresistibly creamy.
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce: The star of the dish — bursting with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan flavors. Feel free to try variations like Sun Dried Tomato Pesto for a twist!
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that ties the sauce together.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance all the flavors.
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma to finish the dish.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid: Perfect for cooking the chicken and pasta together without transferring between pots.
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula: For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise amounts of broth, cream, and pesto.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For dicing the chicken and mincing the garlic.
• Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne (One Pot): From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and just cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the penne pasta, submerging it as much as possible in the liquid.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the liquid and become tender.

Step 5: Stir in Pesto, Chicken, and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, stir in the pesto sauce and grated Parmesan cheese. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Smart Substitutions

• Penne Pasta: Swap for other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle if you prefer.
• Chicken Breast: Use chicken thighs for a juicier option or plant-based chicken alternatives for a vegetarian twist.
• Heavy Cream: Substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Pesto Sauce: Make your own at home or try different pesto varieties like sun-dried tomato or kale pesto.
• Parmesan Cheese: Use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for dairy-free diets.

Cook’s Commentary

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne (One Pot) is one of those recipes that feels indulgent without being complicated. The one-pot method is a game-changer for busy cooks who want comforting homemade meals without the mess. I love how the pesto infuses every bite with fresh herbaceous notes, balanced perfectly by the richness of the cream and cheese.

The key to success here is not rushing the pasta cooking time — letting it absorb the broth and cream creates that silky sauce that clings beautifully. Also, don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it adds a pop of color and a lift of freshness that cuts through the richness.

If you’re interested in trying a similar flavor profile with a Cajun twist, check out this Creamy Cajun Chicken Shrimp Penne recipe — equally delicious and perfect for spice lovers.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid curdling. You can also prepare the chicken and sauce base ahead of time, then add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for an extra fresh bite.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before dicing and cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly can result in uneven cooking and a soggy texture.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time as gluten-free pasta sometimes cooks faster or slower.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

What type of pesto is best for this recipe?

Classic basil pesto works beautifully here, but you can experiment with different varieties. For example, a Sun Dried Tomato Pesto adds a tangy, slightly sweet twist. Just be sure to use a good-quality pesto to maximize flavor.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Creamy Cajun Chicken Shrimp Penne – A spicy, creamy pasta that cooks up fast for dinner.
• Sun Dried Tomato Pesto – Make your own vibrant pesto for sandwiches, pasta, or dips.
• Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Zucchini Rounds – A simple, flavorful one-pan chicken dinner with a pesto twist.

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed this Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne (One Pot), there are plenty more dishes to explore that blend ease with bold flavors. From quick skillet meals to hearty pasta dishes, you’ll find inspiration for every night of the week. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs, proteins, and pasta shapes to make this recipe your own signature dish.

Creamy, comforting, and bursting with bright pesto flavor, this one-pot chicken penne is destined to become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated recipes or long ingredient lists to create something truly special. Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

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