Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aromas of fresh basil and garlic wafted through the air, instantly transportive. I was in need of a quick, satisfying dinner when the idea for One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta struck me. This dish marries tender chicken with crisp broccoli and a rich, creamy pesto sauce to create a flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. The best part? It’s an easy cleanup—everything cooks in one pan, giving you more time to savor each delightful bite. Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or a weekend chef, this recipe offers both nourishing comfort and versatility, allowing you to switch it up with vegetarian or vegan options. Curious to discover how to whip up this tasty harmony in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure! Why is this pasta dish a game-changer? One-pan convenience: Say goodbye to a mountain of dishes! This recipe requires just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze after a busy day. Quick and effortless: Ready in under 30 minutes, this creamy meal is your perfect solution for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests. Flavor explosion: Rich pesto, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli create a delightful medley that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Customizable: Easily switch it up—try tofu for a vegetarian option or add extra veggies like bell peppers for a nutrient boost. Restaurant-quality at home: Every bite mimics a gourmet dish, giving you the satisfaction of a five-star meal in your own kitchen. Ready to explore more deliciousness? Check out these Crockpot Chicken Tacos and Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches for more quick meal ideas! Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Rigatoni Pasta – This chewy pasta serves as a sturdy base for the creamy sauce; feel free to swap it with penne or rotini for variety. For the Protein • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Juicy and tender, this is the primary protein source; tofu or tempeh can be used for a vegetarian option. For the Veggies • Broccoli – Adds vibrant color and essential nutrients; be sure to cut it into bite-sized florets for even cooking. For the Sauce • Pesto – A key ingredient in this creamy dish, offering rich flavor; use fresh or homemade for the best taste, or choose high-quality store-bought. • Heavy Cream – This gives the sauce its dreamy creaminess; consider half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version. • Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides a lovely umami kick; nutritional yeast can be substituted for a vegan alternative. • Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Add a sprinkle for a touch of heat; adjust to your preferred spice level. For Cooking • Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavoring—don’t skip seasoning! • Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing chicken and broccoli, adding depth to the flavor profile. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Step 1: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. When done, reserve about half a cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside in a colander, leaving it to steam while you prepare the rest of the dish. Step 2: Sauté the Chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board before slicing into bite-sized pieces. Step 3: Cook the Broccoli In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Toss in the broccoli florets and sauté over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, until they are tender-crisp and vibrant green. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning, then remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside with the chicken. Step 4: Combine Chicken & Sauce Reduce the heat to medium-low, and return the sautéed chicken to the skillet. Add in the prepared pesto, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is well combined and heated through. Allow it to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until everything is perfectly blended and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Step 5: Toss with Pasta Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the creamy pesto mixture until well coated. Mix in the tender-crisp broccoli and sprinkle in red pepper flakes for an optional kick. Cook together for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 6: Serve Plate the Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta, Drizzling a bit more sauce on top if desired. For an extra touch, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while hot to fully enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this delightful one-pan meal! Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Variations Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these delightful twists and substitutions just waiting to transform your dish! Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh for an equally satisfying meal. Both options absorb flavors beautifully, giving your pasta a wonderful new dimension. Vegan: Use a vegan pesto and substitute nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. This way, you won’t miss the creaminess while enjoying a plant-based version. Nut-Free: If you need a nut-free option, ensure your pesto is made without nuts. There are plenty of delicious nut-free pestos available, or you can make your own! Extra Veggies: Load up on nutrition! Toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the flavor and create a colorful dish that’s as tasty as it is nourishing. Herbs & Spices: Introduce fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, or spices like smoked paprika, for a personalized kick. A sprinkle of these can elevate your pasta experience! Heat Level: For a spicy twist, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a dash of cayenne for an extra fiery bite that brings warmth to your dish. Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese types, such as goat cheese or a sharp cheddar, to create new flavor profiles that surprise and delight. Lemon Zest: Add a little lemon zest or juice before serving for a refreshing burst of citrus that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. With these variations, you can keep your meals exciting and tailored to your family’s tastes! If you’re in the mood for more delicious ideas, check out these Ricotta Stuffed Shells or the comforting flavors of Rotisserie Chicken Tacos. Happy cooking! Tips for the Best Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Pasta Perfection: Avoid overcooking the pasta. It should be al dente to hold its texture and prevent a mushy dish. Homemade Happiness: For an unbeatable flavor, use fresh or homemade pesto instead of store-bought; it adds a personal touch to your creamy pasta. Boost the Flavor: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the dish, bringing together the richness of the creamy sauce and the fresh ingredients. Step-By-Step Storage: Allow the pasta to cool completely before refrigerating; it helps maintain the creamy texture for future meals. Layered Texture: Toss the pasta gently but thoroughly with the sauce to ensure every bite of your Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta is deliciously coated. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline mealtime! You can prepare the chicken and broccoli up to 3 days in advance by cooking and storing them separately in the refrigerator; this helps maintain their flavors and textures. The creamy pesto sauce can also be made ahead—just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and broccoli in a skillet over medium heat and add the cooked rigatoni and sauce, tossing everything together for a quick finish. This way, you can enjoy a delicious weeknight dinner with minimal effort! What to Serve with One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Imagine a table set with delicious sides that perfectly complement the rich, creamy goodness of your pasta dish. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every bit of the flavorful sauce, this warm and toasty side adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta. Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette brightens the meal, providing a delightful contrast to the richness of the pesto sauce. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted seasonal vegetables bring additional depth and flavor, making each bite of pasta even more satisfying with earthy notes. Herbed Quinoa: This light and fluffy grain captures the essence of the dish, offering a wholesome alternative that soaks up the creamy sauce while adding protein and fiber. Lemon Wedges: A simple squeeze of fresh lemon elevates entire dish with zesty brightness, balancing the creaminess and enhancing the overall flavor with a pop of freshness. White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements its flavors, elevating your dining experience while cutting through the richness of the creamy pesto chicken & broccoli pasta. Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your meal with a light and decadent chocolate mousse, offering a satisfyingly rich dessert that feels indulgent yet remains light after a hearty main course. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled completely before sealing to maintain its creamy texture. Freezer: If you want to enjoy the dish later, freeze it for up to 3 months. Divide portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Stir in a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to regain that luscious consistency. Avoiding Texture Changes: Instead of freezing, you can also adjust the quantity of ingredients to ensure you enjoy your Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta freshly made as needed! Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pesto? Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh or homemade pesto if possible. Look for a vibrant green color and a strong basil aroma. If using store-bought, opt for a high-quality brand without added preservatives. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store your Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to preserve its delicious creamy texture! Can I freeze Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta? Yes, you can freeze this dish! Simply divide the pasta into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. When ready to reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore its creamy goodness. What if my pasta turns mushy after cooking? Great question! To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to cook it al dente, according to package instructions, which usually takes 10-12 minutes. If you accidentally overcook it, you can still salvage minor mushiness by tossing the pasta quickly with the sauce to reduce further cooking. Is this dish suitable for people with nut allergies? Yes! This recipe is nut-free, as it uses traditional pesto made from basil, garlic, olive oil, and cheese without nuts. Just be cautious with any store-bought pestos, as some may contain nuts. Always check the label if allergies are a concern. Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan? Very much so! To make it vegetarian, simply swap chicken for tofu or tempeh. For a vegan version, use a vegan pesto and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. You can enjoy the same delicious flavors with these substitutions! Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes A quick and satisfying Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and rich pesto sauce—ready in just 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta Can substitute with penne or rotini.For the Protein1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Use tofu or tempeh for vegetarian option.For the Veggies2 cups Broccoli Cut into bite-sized florets.For the Sauce1 cup Pesto Use fresh or homemade for best flavor.1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or coconut cream can be used.1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be substituted for vegan option.1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional, adjust according to spice preference.For Cooking1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor.1 teaspoon Pepper Essential for flavor.3 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing. Equipment large potlarge skilletColander Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve half a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, sauté for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and sauté over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove from pan with the chicken.Reduce heat to medium-low, return chicken to skillet, add pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan, stirring until well combined. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.Add cooked pasta to skillet, toss with creamy pesto mixture, mix in broccoli and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute to meld flavors.Plate the pasta, drizzle with extra sauce if desired, garnish with additional Parmesan and black pepper. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesAvoid overcooking the pasta. For best flavor, use fresh or homemade pesto. A squeeze of lemon can brighten the dish. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
