One Pot Chicken Caesar Pesto Pasta Recipe

When it comes to a satisfying dinner, it doesn’t get much better than a creamy, hearty pasta dish that requires minimal cleanup. Enter One Pot Chicken Caesar Pesto Pasta—a perfect combination of creamy Caesar dressing, aromatic basil pesto, and tender chicken all brought together in one convenient pot. With the flavors of a classic Caesar salad and the indulgence of pasta, this recipe is a delicious twist on comfort food that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot Chicken Caesar Pesto Pasta combines the best of both worlds—the creamy, tangy flavor of Caesar dressing and the fresh, herbaceous notes of basil pesto, all enveloping perfectly cooked pasta and succulent chicken. Best of all, it’s made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:

• Quick and easy: You can have a hearty dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

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• Minimal cleanup: Everything is cooked in one pot, so there’s no need to fuss with multiple pans.

• Flavor-packed: The combination of creamy Caesar dressing, basil pesto, and tender chicken creates an irresistible flavor profile.

• Customizable: You can make it your own by adjusting the ingredients, adding vegetables, or even swapping proteins.

• Family-friendly: It’s a dish that both kids and adults will love!

How to Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will add flavor to the chicken and help it develop a beautiful golden crust.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is browned on the outside and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to rest for a few minutes.

3. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is rested and cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also dice it into chunks if you prefer. Set the shredded chicken aside for later.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In the same pot that you used for the chicken, add 3 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat.

2. Once the broth is simmering, add the penne pasta to the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed and submerged in the broth.

3. Let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the liquid is evaporating too quickly, you can add a little more broth or water to maintain enough moisture.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, Caesar dressing, and basil pesto. Mix well until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.

2. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir to combine. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm through and the sauce to thicken.

Step 3: Add Cheese

1. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir to incorporate. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it extra creamy and flavorful.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency and everything is well combined, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

2. If you’re adding spinach or arugula, stir it in at this point and cook for another minute until the greens are wilted.

3. For extra color and freshness, stir in some cherry tomatoes just before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Divide the pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and, if desired, a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for added flavor and crunch.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the chicken: To ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it. Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) will give you perfect results every time.

• Use a large pot: Since everything is cooked in one pot, be sure to use a large enough pot to avoid overcrowding. A Dutch oven or 4-quart pot is ideal for this recipe.

• Customize the sauce: If you prefer a tangier sauce, add more Caesar dressing. If you want more pesto flavor, increase the amount of pesto to suit your taste.

• Stir often: Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the pot.

• Add extra veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, or peas, to boost the nutrition and flavor of the dish.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Chicken Caesar Pesto Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.

• Bacon and Chicken Caesar Pesto Pasta: Stir in crumbled crispy bacon for extra crunch and smoky flavor.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian twist on this recipe.

• Lemon Pesto Pasta: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, citrusy kick.

• Mushroom Lover’s Pesto Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms for a rich, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

What to Serve with One Pot Chicken Caesar Pesto Pasta

• Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side to soak up the creamy sauce.

• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette would complement the dish beautifully.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli would provide a lovely contrast to the rich pasta.

• Wine Pairing: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to cut through the creaminess.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Storing

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Reheat the pasta in a pot over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and stir frequently to avoid burning.

• Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a bit of water or cream to rehydrate the sauce and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not using enough liquid for the pasta: Make sure the pasta has enough broth or water to cook properly. If you need more liquid, add a little more chicken broth.

• Overcooking the pasta: Pasta can quickly become mushy if overcooked. Always cook it al dente and let the sauce finish thickening after the pasta is done.

• Under-seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end! Caesar dressing and pesto can vary in saltiness, so make sure to add salt and pepper as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the pasta and chicken in advance and store it separately. Reheat when ready to serve, adding a little extra cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! This recipe is versatile, and you can swap the penne for other types of pasta like fusilli, rotini, or spaghetti.

Can I use store-bought pesto and Caesar dressing?

Absolutely! Using store-bought versions of pesto and Caesar dressing will save time without sacrificing flavor. However, homemade versions tend to be richer and fresher if you have the time.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken Caesar Pesto Pasta is the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner that combines creamy, savory, and fresh flavors in one pot. With minimal prep and cleanup, this dish delivers maximum comfort and flavor. It’s versatile, quick to make, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.