This One-Pan Garlic Chicken Pesto Pasta is a quick and easy dinner that brings together tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and fresh cherry tomatoes for a dish that’s packed with flavor. Made entirely in one pan, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying, low-fuss dinner that everyone will love. With minimal cleanup, you’ll be able to enjoy more time relaxing after this delicious, hearty meal.
Ingredients
For 4 servings
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into ½-inch (2 cm) strips
- 2 tablespoons chopped garlic
- ½ tablespoon kosher salt
- ½ tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¾ cup (175 mL) heavy cream
- ½ cup (55 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- ¼ cup (55 g) pesto
- 3 cups (600 g) cooked penne pasta, drained
- ¾ cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- Chopped fresh basil, for garnish
Preparation
- Cook the chicken:
- In a large pan over high heat, heat the canola oil. Add the sliced chicken, garlic, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Add the Parmesan cheese and pesto, stirring until the sauce is smooth and the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle boil and cook until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine with pasta and tomatoes:
- Add the cooked penne pasta and halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Garlic Chicken Pesto Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish that comes together in no time. The rich pesto sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and juicy cherry tomatoes, making each bite a delightful experience. With the convenience of a one-pan meal, you’ll have more time to enjoy a comforting and delicious dinner with minimal cleanup. Enjoy this satisfying pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal!