There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect meal for busy weeknights, offering a deliciously indulgent dish with minimal cleanup. Made with tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and a velvety Parmesan sauce, this pasta will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, the one-pot method makes cooking and cleaning a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Convenience: Everything cooks in a single pot, reducing mess and making cleanup easy.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious sauce.
- Hearty and Satisfying: With protein-rich chicken and pasta, this dish is both filling and comforting.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 8 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for a pop of color and freshness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the pasta package instructions, usually about 10–12 minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a thick, creamy consistency. If you want a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the chicken is warmed through, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness and color. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy this comforting, creamy pasta dish!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly, so for the best results, grate fresh Parmesan.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking pasta in the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors, but be sure to monitor it to prevent overcooking.
- Customize It: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream to reduce calories.
- Make It Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth and warm over low heat on the stovetop. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each one to ensure even heating.
Perfect Pairings
Pair this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together simple ingredients in a luxurious, restaurant-quality dish. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or looking for a quick yet impressive meal for guests, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try, and it may just become your new go-to pasta dish!