Weeknight cooking feels easier when one pan delivers comfort, speed, and real flavor. This 30-Minute Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Skillet brings together tender chicken, penne, and a rich basil sauce in a way that feels indulgent without being complicated. Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy dinner. The creamy texture, balanced seasoning, and flexible add-ins make this dish reliable for family meals and casual entertaining alike.
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30-Minute Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Skillet for Busy Nights
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A rich and comforting one-skillet dinner made with tender chicken, penne pasta, and a creamy basil pesto sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want bold flavor with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
3 ounces cream cheese, cut into chunks
1/3 cup basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Black pepper, to taste
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Optional: 3 cups fresh spinach, 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until lightly golden.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in pasta and chicken broth, scraping the pan.
4. Cover and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
6. Add milk, cream cheese, and pesto, stirring until smooth.
7. Mix in Parmesan cheese.
8. Fold in spinach and sun-dried tomatoes if using.
9. Season and serve warm.
Notes
Stir gently when adding dairy to prevent curdling. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: One-Pot Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Why 30-Minute Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Skillet Works
Fast skillet cooking with bold flavor
This dish uses a streamlined method where chicken, pasta, and sauce build flavor in layers. Browning the chicken first creates a savory base, while simmering the pasta directly in broth pulls those flavors into every bite. The result tastes slow-cooked, even though it comes together quickly.
Balanced comfort and freshness
Butter, milk, and cream cheese give the sauce body, while basil pesto adds a fresh, herbal note. That contrast keeps the dish rich without feeling heavy, which is why creamy pesto chicken pasta remains so popular for all seasons.
Why creamy pesto chicken pasta satisfies every time
The combination of protein, carbs, and fat creates a filling meal that does not need much on the side. If you enjoy skillet dinners like this, you may also like this comforting cheesy chicken tater tot bake for another crowd-pleasing option.
Ingredients That Make This Skillet Exceptional
Chicken and pasta pairing for creamy pesto chicken pasta
Boneless, skinless chicken breast cooks evenly and stays tender when cut into bite-size pieces. Penne pasta works especially well because its ridges hold onto the sauce, ensuring consistent flavor in every forkful.
Dairy elements that build creamy pesto pasta texture
Milk, cream cheese, and Parmesan work together to form a smooth sauce that coats the pasta without clumping. Cream cheese melts gradually, helping the pesto blend evenly throughout the skillet.
Optional add-ins that elevate pesto chicken pasta
Fresh spinach wilts gently into the sauce, adding color and nutrients. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated sweetness that pairs naturally with basil pesto. For another creamy chicken dinner with a twist, explore this flavorful chicken bacon ranch tortellini for inspiration.
How to Make 30-Minute Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Skillet
One-pan technique for creamy pesto chicken pasta
Start by melting butter in a deep skillet and browning the chicken. Garlic follows briefly to release aroma without burning. Pasta and broth go in together, allowing the starches to thicken the sauce naturally as everything simmers.
Timing tips for perfect pasta texture
Covering the skillet helps the pasta cook evenly. Stirring every few minutes prevents sticking and ensures the liquid absorbs at the right pace. When most of the broth is gone and the pasta is tender, the base is ready for the creamy elements.
Finishing steps for rich pesto flavor
Milk, cream cheese, and pesto are added over medium heat so the sauce turns silky instead of separating. Parmesan melts last, bringing depth and a subtle salty finish. A pinch of black pepper and red pepper flakes sharpens the overall flavor.
Serving Ideas and Variations
Simple sides for creamy pesto chicken pasta
This skillet pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a warm baguette works nicely for soaking up extra sauce.
Easy swaps for different diets
You can substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber or use gluten-free penne if needed. Chicken thighs can replace breasts for a slightly richer result without changing the method.
Storing and reheating pesto chicken pasta
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
FAQs About Pasta Chicken Pesto and Creamy Pesto Pasta
Pasta chicken pesto
This combination works because the mild flavor of chicken allows pesto to stand out. Cooking everything together helps the pasta absorb both the chicken juices and the basil sauce, creating a cohesive dish.
Creamy pesto pasta
Adding dairy softens the intensity of pesto and creates a smoother mouthfeel. Cream cheese is especially effective because it stabilizes the sauce during reheating.
Common skillet questions answered
A deep skillet with a lid is ideal for even cooking. If the sauce thickens too much, a small amount of warm broth or milk brings it back to the right consistency.
Conclusion
Why this creamy pesto chicken pasta belongs on your table
This meal proves that comfort food does not need to be complicated. With simple ingredients and one pan, you get consistent results and strong flavor.
Weeknight comfort made simple
The method adapts easily to what you have on hand, making it dependable for busy evenings when time matters.
Final cooking encouragement
Once you try this approach, it becomes a reliable template for future skillet meals built around pasta, protein, and a bold sauce.
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