A Cozy One Pot Dinner You’ll Crave
It all started on one of those impossibly long weekdays when the to‑do list seemed to never end. The clock ticked past six, my stomach grumbled, and the idea of spending an hour in the kitchen felt out of the question. That’s when I discovered the joy of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta—a comforting, One Pot Dinner that comes together effortlessly and fills the air with an aroma so inviting, it practically hugs you at the door.
Picture this: tender bites of chicken searing gently in olive oil, releasing that sizzling sound that means dinner is on its way. As the pesto warms, its fragrance blooms—an irresistible mix of basil, garlic, and parmesan. Then comes the cream, swirling into the glossy green sauce to transform it into something velvety and luxurious. With each stir, the kitchen fills with warmth and promise.
What struck me most about this Pesto and Artichoke Pasta was how easily it soothed the rush of the day. It’s that perfect mix of convenience and decadence, the kind of recipe you tuck away for nights when you need comfort without compromise. Everything cooks in one pot—no extra dishes, no clutter—just pure, creamy satisfaction.
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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Artichokes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting one pot dinner featuring tender chicken, tangy artichokes, and a velvety creamy pesto sauce served over your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, add chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook 4-5 minutes per side until nearly cooked through, then remove to a plate.
2. Add minced garlic to the same pot and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in uncooked pasta and chicken broth or water to cover the pasta, bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, stir in heavy cream and pesto until combined and silky smooth.
5. Return the chicken and add artichoke hearts to the pot, simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
6. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is glossy, adding pasta cooking water if needed to adjust the consistency.
7. Season to taste, serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: one pot
- Cuisine: italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 14
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 80
Keywords: creamy chicken pesto pasta, pesto and artichoke pasta, one pot dinner, healthy pesto chicken dish, creamy pesto sauce, pesto chicken pasta, easy dinner
Whether it’s a solo dinner or a quick family meal, this One Pot Dinner proves that you don’t need hours to create something that feels homemade and heartfelt. All it takes is a few pantry staples, a bit of pesto magic, and a willingness to let simplicity shine.
Why Artichokes Make This Dish Special
Artichokes bring a bright, tangy twist that balances the rich Creamy Pesto Sauce and juicy chicken. Their subtle sharpness cuts through the creaminess, adding a hint of Mediterranean flair that turns every forkful into something distinct. I still remember trying artichokes for the first time at a family gathering—curious, slightly hesitant, but immediately hooked once I tasted their tender bite and layered flavor. That experience sparked the idea of folding them into this Pesto Chicken Pasta, giving a traditional favorite a surprise twist.
What I love about using artichokes here is the way they make this dish feel like a Healthy Pesto Chicken Dish without taking away its indulgent appeal. They lend texture and brightness, the perfect foil for the silky sauce and hearty pasta. Every bite combines creamy basil notes, savory chicken, and the delicate bite of artichoke—proof that comfort food can also feel balanced and refreshing. This Pesto Chicken Pasta isn’t just delicious; it’s the meal that bridges busy evenings and cozy dinners, keeping both body and spirit satisfied.
Building Flavor with Simple Ingredients
What You’ll Need for the Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta with Artichokes
Every satisfying Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta starts with good, simple ingredients. Below is a clear ingredient list so you can see exactly what goes into this flavor‑packed One Pot Dinner.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 medium (about 1 lb) | Slice into bite‑size strips for quicker cooking; thighs work well too. |
| Pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or fusilli) | 12 oz | Short pasta holds the sauce well; whole‑wheat or gluten‑free options also fit. |
| Artichoke hearts (jarred or canned) | 1 cup, drained and quartered | Marinated hearts give tang; canned or fresh are milder. |
| Pesto | ½ cup | Choose a fresh basil pesto—homemade or quality store‑bought—to deepen the Creamy Pesto Sauce. |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Swap with half‑and‑half or coconut milk for a lighter Healthy Pesto Chicken Dish. |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Balances richness with aroma. |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup, freshly grated | Melts in for saltiness and depth. |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing chicken and garlic. |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Pesto and parmesan add natural saltiness, so season carefully. |
Ingredient Notes: Jarred marinated artichokes add citrusy brightness, while fresh produce a firm, subtler bite. Classic basil pesto feels traditional, but sun‑dried tomato or kale pesto make fun variations. Choose grooved pasta shapes to hold onto that luscious Creamy Pesto Sauce in every bite.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Make This One Pot Dinner
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium‑high heat. Add chicken strips, season, and brown each side about five minutes. Remove to a plate.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same pan, cook minced garlic for 30 seconds, fragrant but not brown—this begins the Creamy Pesto Sauce base.
- Add Pasta and Liquid: Pour in uncooked pasta and water or broth just to cover. Simmer until nearly tender, about 8–10 minutes, stirring.
- Incorporate Cream and Pesto: Lower heat, add cream and pesto, stir until silky and smooth. The sauce should coat the noodles lightly.
- Return Chicken and Add Artichokes: Stir chicken and artichokes back in, simmer 2–3 minutes to mingle flavors.
- Finish with Parmesan: Blend in parmesan until melted; use reserved pasta water if more fluid texture is needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon into bowls while hot—each bite creamy, tangy, and satisfying. Your effortless One Pot Dinner is ready.
Making Your Pesto Chicken Pasta Perfect Every Time
Smart Tips for Creamy Perfection
- Keep heat gentle once cream is added. Too hot will curdle dairy; maintain a low simmer for a luxuriously smooth Creamy Pesto Sauce.
- Adjust texture with pasta water. A splash brings everything together, ensuring the sauce clings to pasta.
- Taste before salting. Parmesan and pesto add plenty; sample before extra seasoning.
- Finish pasta in its sauce. Cooking it together enhances flavor and keeps it al dente for the best Pesto Chicken Pasta.
- Reimagine leftovers. Spoon remaining sauce over grains, veggies, or bread—it’s an easy Healthy Pesto Chicken Dish foundation.
Variations & Meal Prep Ideas for Busy Weeks
- Lighten it up. Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light coconut milk for a lower‑fat Healthy Pesto Chicken Dish. Pair with whole‑wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
- Add more vegetables. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms lend brightness; sun‑dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers deepen flavor.
- Try seafood or vegetarian versions. Shrimp, salmon, or tofu adapt easily for satisfying alternatives to chicken in this Pesto and Artichoke Pasta.
- Make‑ahead plan. Prepare pasta just shy of al dente, drizzle with oil, and refrigerate separately from the sauce up to three days. Combine and warm gently when ready.
- Freeze smart. Portion into containers, freeze up to two months, and reheat slowly with a bit of milk for revived creaminess.
- Weekend prep trick. Cook extra chicken for freezer portions—future weeknights will thank you for the shortcut to a dreamy Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta One Pot Dinner.
Answers to Common Questions + Final Thoughts
FAQs About Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Artichokes
- Can I make this pasta without cream? Use half‑and‑half, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt for a lighter Healthy Pesto Chicken Dish that keeps the Creamy Pesto Sauce texture intact.
- What kind of pesto works best? Classic basil pesto pairs beautifully with chicken and artichokes, but kale, arugula, or sun‑dried tomato pesto will personalize your Pesto and Artichoke Pasta.
- How long does it keep in the fridge? Store airtight for 3–4 days; gently reheat with milk or broth to loosen. It’s ideal for quick One Pot Dinner leftovers.
- Can I make it gluten‑free? Yes—use gluten‑free pasta such as chickpea or brown‑rice varieties and shorten their cook time slightly so they remain firm.
- What vegetables go well with pesto chicken pasta? Spinach, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers balance the dish’s creaminess for a colorful Healthy Pesto Chicken Dish.
Why This One Pot Dinner Belongs in Your Meal Plan
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Artichokes embodies everything we love about comfort cooking—simple method, rich taste, and minimal cleanup. Tender chicken mingles with tangy artichokes and a velvety Creamy Pesto Sauce, delivering hearty flavor in record time.
Busy families, students, and new cooks alike appreciate a One Pot Dinner that feels indulgent yet balanced. You can lighten it for a Healthy Pesto Chicken Dish, prep portions ahead, or freeze for later. Versatile and efficient, it meets every schedule and craving.
Above all, it invites you to slow down and enjoy something homemade that brings comfort without complexity. The next time you crave creamy, herbaceous flavor with a bright artichoke finish, turn to this easy Pesto Chicken Pasta—a meal ready to share, savor, and repeat.
