Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? You’ve found it! This One-Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne is a simple dish that packs bold flavor. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a creamy pasta meal that everyone loves. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal cleanup. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make a meal that shines on your table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
The main ingredients create a rich and creamy flavor. The penne pasta acts as a perfect base. The chicken adds protein, and the garlic brings a great aroma. Cherry tomatoes give a burst of sweetness, while spinach adds color and nutrition. Heavy cream makes the sauce smooth and luscious. Pesto sauce adds fresh herb notes, and Parmesan ties it all together with richness.
Essential Cooking Tools
– Large pot or Dutch oven
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Knife and cutting board
– Measuring cups and spoons
Having the right tools helps make cooking easy. A large pot or Dutch oven lets you cook everything in one place. A wooden spoon or spatula helps stir the ingredients well. A sharp knife and a cutting board make chopping safe and simple. Measuring cups and spoons ensure you get the right amounts.
Optional Garnishes
– Fresh basil leaves
– Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Garnishes make the dish look nice and add flavor. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and freshness. Extra grated Parmesan gives a rich, cheesy finish. You can choose to add these based on your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of diced chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it turns brown and is cooked through. Season it with salt and pepper to add flavor. When done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Combining Ingredients
Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Sauté it for about a minute until it smells great. Then, toss in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they soften a bit. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, and add 1/2 cup of pesto sauce. Stir everything well to mix. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cooking the Pasta
Now, add 12 ounces of penne pasta directly into the pot. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce. If needed, add 2 cups of water to cover the pasta. Bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir it occasionally until the pasta is al dente. After cooking, mix in 1 cup of fresh spinach and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper if needed. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Creamy Sauce
To get the best creamy sauce, use heavy cream. It makes the sauce rich and smooth. If you want more flavor, add a little more pesto. This will enhance the taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Let the sauce simmer. This helps it thicken and become even creamier.
How to Achieve Al Dente Pasta
Cooking the penne just right is key. Start by boiling water in your pot. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. When the water boils, add the penne. Stir it well to prevent sticking. Cook it for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste it a minute before the time is up. You want it firm but not hard.
Serving Suggestions
When serving, use a big bowl. This makes it easy to mix and show off the dish. Top with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese adds flavor too. Serve it hot and enjoy your meal!
Variations
Substitutions for Chicken
You can swap chicken for other proteins. Try diced turkey or shrimp for a twist. Tofu works well for a plant-based meal. Just cook it until it’s golden. You can also use pre-cooked chicken to save time.
Alternative Pasta Options
While penne is great, you have choices! Fusilli, rotini, or farfalle all work nicely. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if needed. Just adjust your cooking time as pasta shapes vary.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost flavor? Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. You can include red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano add depth too. Try sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy kick.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers of your One-Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Penne, let it cool first. Once cool, transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. If using the stove, place the dish in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream to keep it creamy. Stir often until warmed through. If using the microwave, cover it and heat in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
Freezing Instructions
You can also freeze this dish for later. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. It will last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, follow the reheating tips above. Enjoy your tasty meal again!
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat penne?
Yes, you can use whole wheat penne. Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and is healthier. It cooks slightly different, so check the package for timing. Whole wheat penne may have a nuttier flavor, which complements the dish well.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten this dish, you can swap heavy cream for milk or a non-dairy option. Use less pesto for fewer calories. Adding more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, boosts nutrition too. You can also reduce the amount of cheese.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour. Coconut milk is a great non-dairy choice too. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt, but add it at the end to avoid curdling.
You now have a clear plan to make a delicious pasta dish. We covered the main ingredients, essential tools, and garnishes. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for a creamy sauce, and how to store leftovers. We also explored variations for chicken and pasta. Remember, cooking can be fun and easy! Use your creativity to make this dish your own. Following these guidelines will ensure you enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!
