Go Back
Delicious One Pan Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Pasta dish, garnished with cheese.

One Pan Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Pasta

A cozy, colorful, and easy one-pan meal featuring chicken, cherry tomatoes, and pasta soaked in fragrant pesto.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 470

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (breasts or thighs)
  • 3-4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
  • 8-10 ounces Pasta (penne, rotini, or bow ties)
  • 3 cups Chicken broth (plus a splash more if needed)
  • 1/3-1/2 cup Pesto (store bought is fine)
  • to taste Parmesan, for serving
  • optional Baby spinach
  • optional Red pepper flakes
  • optional A squeeze of lemon

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat a large deep skillet or wide pan on medium high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
  2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot pan. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes, stirring now and then, until it is browned on the outside.
  3. Add the garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them warm up for 2 minutes.
  5. Add the dry pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Stir well so the pasta is mostly covered.
  6. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a steady simmer. Cook, stirring every couple of minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, usually 10 to 14 minutes depending on the pasta shape.
  7. Turn off the heat, then stir in the pesto. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon as required.
  8. Finish with Parmesan, and add red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Keep an eye on the liquid level. Use a deep skillet for even cooking. Stir more than you think to prevent sticking.