One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Creamy, savory, and brimming with garlicky goodness, One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of comfort food that tastes like it took hours—but comes together in less than 30 minutes. This dish pairs juicy golden-brown chicken with penne pasta, tossed in a luxuriously rich parmesan cream sauce that clings to every bite.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this recipe keeps cleanup simple with just one pot to wash. Each spoonful is loaded with flavor and silky texture, delivering that ultimate balance of indulgence and ease.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Penne is ideal for this dish because its ridged shape traps the creamy parmesan sauce perfectly, but rotini or rigatoni are also great substitutes. The key is to use a short pasta that cooks evenly and holds onto the sauce.

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Ingredients for the One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal. It cooks quickly and soaks up the garlicky seasoning beautifully.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that deep, aromatic flavor that anchors the whole dish.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the rich, velvety sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the cream to create a bold, savory sauce.
• Butter and Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken and build flavor layers.
• Penne Pasta: Cooks right in the pot, soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth and helps cook the pasta while enriching the sauce.
• Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Classic seasoning trio to bring everything together.
• Parsley (optional): For a pop of freshness and color.

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How To Make the One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add more butter if needed, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a light simmer. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens to your liking.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return the seared chicken to the pot and toss everything together. Let it heat through for another minute or two. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

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Serving and Storing Your Chicken Pasta

This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the pot when the sauce is hot and creamy. Pair it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. For leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm gently over the stove or in the microwave to revive the sauce’s silky texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just add it in at the final step to warm through.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich. A little cream cheese can help thicken it.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth and Parmesan are gluten-free labeled.

How do I avoid overcooking the pasta?

Stir occasionally while simmering and taste-test a minute or two before the package time ends. Keep the pot covered to help it cook evenly.

Is it okay to freeze this dish?

Cream-based sauces can separate after freezing. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or within a few days refrigerated for best texture.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you love this One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, check out these other delicious weeknight meals:

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a luscious garlic sauce.
• One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice for a zesty, herbaceous twist on skillet dinners.
• Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole for a veggie-packed and hearty option.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo that’s quick, flavorful, and full of texture.
• Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta if you crave bold, peppery heat with creamy comfort.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up with red pepper flakes? Try it with spinach or mushrooms?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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