I’ve always had a soft spot for dinners that don’t demand a sink full of dishes afterward, and this one hits the sweet spot. Picture tender pasta swirling in a creamy pesto sauce, with chunks of juicy chicken tucked between bites. It’s the sort of meal you can throw together after a long day without feeling like you’ve signed up for a kitchen marathon. The beauty here is how everything happens in one pot. You start with chicken that browns just enough to smell amazing, then pasta joins the party and soaks up all the flavors as it cooks. By the time you stir in that pesto and cream, the sauce clings to every piece like it’s been planning this moment all along. This isn’t just dinner. It’s a sigh of relief at the end of a busy day. Whether you call it one of your go-to one pot pasta recipes, a lifesaver from the list of One Pot Pasta Meals, or a hero among One Pot Dinner Ideas, it belongs in your weeknight rotation. It’s quick, satisfying, and the kind of comfort that makes you linger a little longer at the table.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
3) Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
4) How to Make One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
5) Tips for Making One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
6) Making One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
8) Try these Main Course next!
9) One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

This one pot pasta recipe saves time and reduces cleanup.
The creamy pesto sauce coats every piece of pasta for full flavor.
Perfect for quick weeknight meals without sacrificing taste.
Customizable with proteins like shrimp or vegetarian options.

2) Easy One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’ve ever wished dinner could just appear on the table after a long day, this is as close as it gets. This one pot pasta recipe is simple, rich, and comforting in the best way. Chicken cooks right in the same pot as the pasta, soaking up all the savory flavors as it simmers.

I love how the creamy pesto wraps itself around each piece of pasta, making every bite taste like it’s been carefully prepared. The bonus? You only wash one pot, so the kitchen stays peaceful and the sink stays empty. Well, almost.

Whether you’re new to One Pot Pasta Meals or already swear by Easy One Pot Dinners, this dish belongs in your regular rotation. It’s hearty enough for a main meal but comes together quickly, making it perfect for those nights when you’d rather spend time eating than cooking.

3) Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Chicken breasts – Tender, boneless, and cut into bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly in the pot.

Olive oil – Adds flavor and helps brown the chicken for a richer taste.

Garlic cloves – Fresh and minced, releasing their aroma as soon as they hit the heat.

Chicken broth – Brings depth and keeps the pasta moist while it cooks.

Pasta – Choose a shape that holds the creamy pesto well, like penne or rotini.

Heavy cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and indulgent.

Basil pesto – Fresh or jarred, it’s the heart of this dish’s flavor.

Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings that bring balance to the richness.

Parmesan cheese – Grated on top for that perfect finishing touch.

Fresh basil – A sprinkle at the end for color and freshness.

4) How to Make One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Step 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and add the chicken pieces. Cook until they turn golden and juicy.

Step 2. Stir in minced garlic and let it release its fragrance into the pot for about 30 seconds.

Step 3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 4. Add the pasta directly into the pot and cook, stirring occasionally until it’s just tender.

Step 5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and pesto, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6. Let the sauce thicken slightly as it clings to the pasta and chicken.

Step 7. Serve with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil sprinkled over the top.

5) Tips for Making One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Cook the pasta until al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce. Overcooking can make the dish lose its satisfying bite.

Use fresh garlic if possible. It makes a noticeable difference compared to pre-minced garlic from a jar.

If you like your sauce extra creamy, add a splash more heavy cream at the end before serving. It won’t overpower the pesto but will give a silkier finish.

6) Making One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time

This recipe holds up well if you prepare it a few hours ahead. Just keep it in the pot with the lid on and reheat gently before serving.

When reheating, stir in a small splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauce’s smooth consistency.

If you plan to serve it the next day, store the pasta and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge.

7) Storing Leftover One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.

To reheat, place it in a pot over low heat with a spoonful of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

This pasta also reheats well in the microwave, though stirring halfway through helps it heat evenly.

8) Try these Main Course next!

9) One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta