Comforting dinner with minimal cleanup
When you want a warm, comforting dinner without dealing with a sink full of dishes, one-pot meals are the perfect solution. This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make — all in a single pan.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but still fits perfectly into busy weeknights. Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and almost no cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Everything cooks in one pot
- Creamy, comforting texture
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Family-friendly and filling
- Easy to customize with veggies or spices
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Optional: Italian seasoning or chili flakes
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
In the same pan, add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Step 3: Add the Pasta
Add the dry pasta directly into the pan. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, and cover. Let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the parmesan cheese and let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Use short pasta for even cooking
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for variation
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of pasta water or more cream
What to Serve With It
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with:
- Simple green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or broth
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is the perfect comfort meal when you want something homemade, satisfying, and stress-free. One pan, simple ingredients, and a creamy sauce that everyone will love.
If you’re building a collection of easy, everyday recipes, this one deserves a spot on your weekly rotation.