One-Pot Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A quick and flavorful one-pot pasta with tender chicken and vibrant basil pesto, perfect for busy weeknights. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 30 minutes blends olive oil, minced garlic, chicken broth into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 520 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb cut chicken breasts and sauté for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  2. Step 2: Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
  3. Step 3: Pour in 3 cups chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta, stir, reduce heat to medium, and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender and most broth is absorbed.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 1/3 cup basil pesto, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring until sauce thickens and coats pasta evenly.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and let sit 2 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does One-Pot Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover One-Pot Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in One-Pot Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale One-Pot Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with One-Pot Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta?

Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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