DINNER

One Pan Pesto Chicken: Easy 30-Min Dinner

by basmer

20 de October de 2025

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One pan pesto chicken has become my absolute go-to for busy weeknights, and I know you’ll love it too! I first discovered how magical this dish is when I was juggling work, kids’ activities, and a serious craving for something delicious that didn’t involve hours of cleanup. The aroma of basil pesto mingling with savory chicken and vibrant vegetables as it cooks in a single skillet is just heavenly. This easy pesto chicken bake transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Pesto Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly simple yet flavorful meal. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings, offering maximum taste with minimum fuss. Here’s why this sheet pan pesto chicken dinner will become a staple in your rotation:

Effortless Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pan, meaning fewer dishes to wash – a weeknight win!
Incredible Flavor: The vibrant basil pesto infuses the chicken and veggies with a fresh, delicious taste.
Quick Preparation: You can have this meal on the table in about 30 minutes, perfect for when time is tight.
Balanced Meal: It combines protein, carbs, and veggies for a satisfying and complete dinner idea.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to your favorite vegetables or protein preferences.
Kid-Approved: The familiar flavors of pesto and chicken make this a hit with the whole family.
Healthy Option: This healthy one pan pesto chicken is packed with nutritious ingredients.

Ingredients for One Pan Pesto Chicken

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to this fantastic one pan pesto chicken recipe. They come together in a single skillet for a meal that’s as easy to clean up as it is to make. You’ll find that the combination of simple pantry staples and fresh produce creates a truly delicious experience.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed – I prefer to cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
1 tablespoon olive oil – A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds a nice subtle flavor.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – These burst with sweetness as they cook, adding a lovely juicy element.
2 cups baby spinach – It wilts down beautifully, adding a fresh green boost without overpowering the dish.
9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini – This is the magical pasta that makes our pesto chicken and vegetables one pan meal so satisfying.
1/4 cup pesto sauce – The star of the show! Use your favorite store-bought or homemade basil pesto for that vibrant flavor.
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional) – For a richer, creamier sauce, but it’s delicious without it too.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami finish that ties everything together.
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional) – A little brightness at the end really elevates the dish.
Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes – For an extra punch of intense, sweet-tart flavor.
Optional: Fresh basil for garnish – Adds a pop of freshness and color.
Optional: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch – A lovely textural addition.

Key Ingredients Explained

The star here is undoubtedly the vibrant basil pesto sauce, which coats everything with its herbaceous, garlicky goodness. The cheese tortellini adds a delightful chewiness and a creamy center, making it a fantastic base for our one pan pesto chicken. And of course, the tender chicken breast provides the perfect protein to make this a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Make Easy Pesto Chicken Bake

This quick pesto chicken sheet pan dinner comes together so fast, you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life. It’s all about building layers of flavor in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Get ready for a truly satisfying meal that smells as amazing as it tastes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the pan heats up, season your cubed 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast with salt and black pepper, to taste. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The aroma of the searing chicken is the first hint of the deliciousness to come! Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add about 1/2 cup of water or broth. Bring this to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini to the simmering liquid. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender but still has a slight bite. Don’t overcook them at this stage!
Step 3: Stir in the 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved. Let them cook for another 2-3 minutes. You’ll see them start to soften and release some of their juices, adding a lovely sweetness to the pan.
Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Now it’s time for the star ingredient: stir in the 1/4 cup pesto sauce. If you’re going for extra richness, add the 1/4 cup heavy cream now too. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the chicken and tortellini are coated in that vibrant pesto. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add the 2 cups baby spinach to the skillet. Stir it into the hot mixture; it will wilt down quickly. Finally, sprinkle with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like, drizzle with 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a touch of brightness. Toss one last time and serve this amazing pesto chicken skillet recipe warm.

Cooking Tips for Success

For the best one pan roasted pesto chicken, cut your chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Be careful not to overcook the tortellini; it should be tender but still have a slight chew. Remember to add the pesto towards the end of cooking to preserve its fresh, bright flavor and beautiful green color.

Pro Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Dinner

I’ve made this one pan pesto chicken recipe more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it absolutely perfect every single time. These tips will elevate your dinner game and ensure you get the most flavor and best texture from this simple dish.

Don’t Crowd the Pan: Whether you’re using a skillet or a sheet pan, give your ingredients space. Overcrowding steams instead of searing, and we want that delicious caramelization on the chicken and veggies.
Quality Pesto Matters: Since pesto is the main flavor driver, using a good quality store-bought or homemade pesto makes a huge difference. Look for one with fresh basil and good olive oil.
Toast Your Nuts: If you’re adding pine nuts or walnuts for crunch, give them a quick toast in a dry skillet until fragrant. This brings out their nutty flavor and makes them extra crispy.
A Splash of Acid: A little squeeze of lemon juice at the end cuts through the richness of the pesto and cheese, brightening up all the flavors. Don’t skip it!

What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Pesto Chicken?

The real secret to perfect one pan pesto chicken is building flavor layers and not overcrowding the pan. Searing the chicken properly first, letting the tomatoes burst, and adding the pesto at the end ensures each component shines. It’s all about balance and timing!

Can I make One Pan Pesto Chicken ahead of time?

You can prep most of the ingredients ahead of time for this easy pesto chicken bake. Chop your chicken, halve your tomatoes, and have your pesto ready. However, it’s best to cook the dish just before serving for optimal texture and flavor. Cooked leftovers store well!

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Pesto Chicken?

A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken or tortellini. Be sure to cook chicken until just done and the tortellini until tender, not mushy. Also, avoid adding the pesto too early; it can lose its vibrant flavor and color if cooked for too long.

Best Ways to Serve Pesto Chicken and Vegetables One Pan

This vibrant pesto chicken and vegetables one pan dish is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple additions. For an extra touch of freshness, I love serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. You could also offer some crusty bread for soaking up any extra delicious pesto sauce left in the pan. If you’re looking for a more substantial side, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or even a scoop of plain rice to create a delightful pesto chicken and rice one pan experience.

Nutrition Facts for One Pan Pesto Chicken

This delightful pesto chicken skillet recipe is not only quick and easy but also offers a good nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious healthy one pan pesto chicken dish:

Calories: 520
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 640mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Pesto Chicken

This pesto chicken skillet recipe is fantastic for leftovers! Once your delicious one pan pesto chicken has cooled down completely, transfer it to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and tasty for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it a perfect candidate for meal prep, ensuring you have a quick and easy lunch or dinner ready to go. This is a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have a quick and easy lunch or dinner ready to go. While it freezes reasonably well, the texture of the tortellini and spinach can change slightly upon thawing, so the fridge is generally preferred for the best quality. If you need to freeze it, ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and aim to consume it within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating this easy pesto chicken bake is simple. For best results, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it, covering the container loosely to trap steam. Avoid overheating, as this can make the tortellini mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Pesto Chicken

What is One Pan Pesto Chicken?

One pan pesto chicken is a versatile dish where chicken, often paired with pasta or vegetables, is cooked together in a single skillet or on a sheet pan with pesto sauce. It’s celebrated for its simplicity and vibrant flavor profile, making weeknight dinners stress-free and delicious.

Why is One Pan Pesto Chicken popular?

The immense popularity of this easy pesto chicken bake stems from its incredible convenience. The “one pan” aspect means minimal cleanup, which is a huge draw for busy cooks. Plus, the combination of savory chicken, aromatic pesto, and often pasta or veggies offers a fantastic flavor explosion with very little effort.

Can I use different vegetables with this recipe?

Absolutely! This pesto chicken and vegetables one pan dish is wonderfully forgiving. Feel free to swap in vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers (any color!), asparagus, broccoli florets, or even mushrooms. Just ensure they are cut to a size that will cook through in the same amount of time as the other ingredients.

Variations of One Pan Pesto Chicken You Can Try

One of the best things about this one pan pesto chicken recipe is how adaptable it is! Whether you’re looking for a lighter meal, a different grain, or a new pasta shape, you can easily customize this dish. Here are a few ideas to get you inspired for your next pesto chicken dinner ideas one pan night.

Healthy One Pan Pesto Chicken Variations

To make this dish even lighter, try swapping chicken breast for lean chicken thighs or even firm tofu. You can also reduce the amount of pesto slightly or opt for a lighter pesto made with less oil. Load up on extra non-starchy vegetables like zucchini noodles or asparagus for a truly healthy one pan pesto chicken meal.

Pesto Chicken and Rice One Pan

If you’re craving a heartier meal, incorporating rice is simple. You can add uncooked rice (like basmati or jasmine) along with the liquid in Step 2, ensuring there’s enough liquid for the rice to cook through – you might need an extra 1/2 to 1 cup of broth. This transforms it into a delicious pesto chicken and rice one pan dish.

Pesto Chicken Pasta One Pan

While this recipe already uses tortellini, you can easily adapt it for other pasta shapes. Use your favorite short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Add them in Step 2 with enough broth or water to cook them al dente, adjusting the liquid as needed. This creates a fantastic pesto chicken pasta one pan meal that everyone will adore.