One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Nothing beats a hearty, creamy, and satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup. This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, this dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious, creamy sauce—all in one pot!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Minimal Cleanup: Only one pot required.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or spices.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 3 cups (750ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
• 2 cups (500ml) milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 12 ounces (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups (200g) spinach or kale
• ½ cup (75g) frozen peas
• Red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Dice the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. Measure Ingredients: Have all ingredients ready to streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken to the pot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

1. In the same pot (don’t clean it—you want the flavor!), add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
2. Stir in the pasta, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
3. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

1. Once the pasta is almost cooked (still slightly firm), return the cooked chicken to the pot.
2. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients

1. If using spinach or kale, stir it in now and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
2. For cherry tomatoes or frozen peas, add them in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to heat through.

Step 7: Adjust and Serve

1. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
2. Garnish with more Parmesan and fresh parsley, if desired.
3. Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta like penne or rotini holds the sauce better, but fettuccine or spaghetti can be used for a more elegant presentation.
2. Don't Overcook: The pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so cook it just shy of al dente.
3. Customizable: Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage, or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth.

Storage and Reheating

1. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!