One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A warm, comforting aroma fills the kitchen as the rich scent of garlic mingles with the nutty essence of Parmesan cheese. This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that takes just 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The magic lies in the simplicity of cooking everything in one pot, creating a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta and chicken.

This recipe is perfect for families or anyone looking to whip up a delicious dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. It’s an ideal option for a comforting weeknight meal, and you can easily make it ahead of time and store leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It all cooks in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
• The creamy sauce clings perfectly to each pasta strand.
• Garlic and Parmesan flavors combine for a delightful taste.
• Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a delicious dish.

For the Pasta and Chicken

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Seasoning

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Serving

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Use half-and-half if you prefer a lighter sauce.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts.
• Gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
• Vegetable broth for a vegetarian dish.
• Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for dairy-free.

How to Make It

Start by preparing your ingredients for a seamless cooking experience.

1. Sauté Chicken

Sauté chicken in a large pot over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until browned. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.

2. Add Garlic and Seasonings

Incorporate garlic and seasonings to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.

3. Combine Pasta and Broth

Add pasta and chicken broth to the pot, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

4. Stir in Heavy Cream

Mix in heavy cream and continue cooking for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.

5. Finish with Cheese and Parsley

Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley, mixing until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed. Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, pasta texture degrades when frozen.
Reheat: microwave for 2-3 minutes or until hot.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the chicken is cubed evenly for uniform cooking.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking during simmering.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor.
• Adjust the spice level by modifying the red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a fresh crunch.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a cozy dinner.