If you’re craving a comforting yet fresh dinner that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal cleanup, this One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chunks of chicken and crisp-tender broccoli enveloped in a luscious, velvety pesto cream sauce, all tossed together with perfectly al dente rigatoni. This dish marries the vibrant herbaceousness of pesto with the cozy richness of a creamy sauce, creating a satisfying meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend delight, this recipe brings warmth, color, and serious taste to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is a breeze because each component plays a starring role in delivering the vibrant flavors and perfect textures that make this recipe special. From the hearty pasta to the fragrant pesto and fresh broccoli, everything combines beautifully in one pan.
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta: Its ridges and tube shape hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite flavorful.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes: Tender and quick-cooking, these chunks soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets: Adds a pop of green color and a satisfying crunch that balances the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the other flavors.
- Olive oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing broccoli with a fruity undertone.
- 1/2 cup pesto: Brings a fresh, herby punch that defines the dish’s character.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that coats every ingredient.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that enriches the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle hint of heat to awaken your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
How to Make One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your rigatoni. Cooking until al dente means the pasta will have just the right firmness to hold up under the creamy sauce without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside while you move on to the exciting next steps.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken and Cook Broccoli
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper as it cooks. You want a nice golden crust on the chicken pieces to lock in juices and add flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, toss in the broccoli florets and sauté until they’re tender-crisp, maintaining that lovely fresh bite that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Pesto Sauce
Return the browned chicken to the skillet along with the broccoli. Stir in the pesto, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and optional red pepper flakes. Gently combine everything over low heat until the sauce is warmed through and the cheese has melted, creating a smooth, glossy coating that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with the Sauce
Now, add your cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so that every piece of pasta is enveloped in the rich creamy pesto sauce. This step is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Dish out the pasta while it’s still warm, topping each serving with extra Parmesan cheese for a salty, cheesy finish that takes this dish to the next level. Grab a fork, and enjoy the delightful layers of taste in this One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe that feels as good as a homecooked meal should.
How to Serve One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few simple garnishes can elevate the presentation and flavor profile of your pasta. Sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add a wonderful crunch and nutty depth that complements the creamy pesto beautifully. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish just before serving.
Side Dishes
This one-pot pasta is a meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread for dipping into the extra sauce. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a simple antipasto platter can also add nice variety to the meal, keeping everything light and fresh alongside the creamy main.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve this pasta in rustic shallow bowls that showcase the vibrant green broccoli and pesto sauce. Layer the pasta with spiraled lemon zest or edible flowers for a touch of whimsy. If you want to really impress, garnish individual portions with shaved Parmesan curls and a sprinkle of chili flakes to add visual contrast and a touch of heat. Presentation is all about celebrating the inviting colors and textures of this heartfelt dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the pasta is saucy, it will stay moist, but you might want to add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to bring back the luscious texture.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze quite as well as it’s best enjoyed fresh due to the cream sauce, which can separate. However, if needed, freeze portions without the Parmesan topping in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to help the sauce come back together more smoothly.
Reheating
Reheat your pasta over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a little extra cream, milk, or even a splash of broth to loosen the sauce and restore that silky texture, making it taste nearly as fresh as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the sauce, other types like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work great too. Choose your favorite shape and enjoy the same creamy goodness.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream sauce, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. The pesto naturally brings fresh herbal notes and will stay delicious.
Can I prepare the pesto from scratch?
Of course! Making pesto at home is quick and rewarding. Fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt blended together is all you need. Homemade pesto will elevate the dish even more.
What if I want to add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in other quick-cooking veggies like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini slices during the broccoli sauté step. They add color, texture, and nutrition without overwhelming the delicate pesto flavor.
How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a light, subtle heat that enhances the flavors without making the dish spicy. You can omit them or adjust the amount depending on your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
Making the One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, flavorful hug that’s ready in under an hour with minimal fuss. It delivers a delicious balance of textures and colors, making dinner something to look forward to every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how effortlessly satisfying cooking a one-pan meal can be. Dive in, savor every bite, and share the joy of a truly unforgettable, creamy pesto pasta night with your loved ones.
Print
One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A delicious and easy one-pan creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rigatoni pasta tossed in a rich pesto cream sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
Seasonings and Sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook chicken and broccoli: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the pesto, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Combine: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the sauce, chicken, and broccoli. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy pesto sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor and garnish.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh pesto or high-quality store-bought pesto.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- Ensure not to overcook broccoli to keep its crisp texture and vibrant green color.
- This dish can be made dairy-free by substituting heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
