Print

Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

creamy one-pot garlic parmesan chicken pasta - featured image

A quick and easy one-pot meal combining tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 4-5 minutes until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium, add remaining tablespoon olive oil, then add minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and milk, stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and add uncooked pasta in a single layer. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
  5. Return chicken to the pot, sprinkle remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover loosely and simmer gently for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until sauce is creamy and coats pasta. Add more milk or broth if sauce is too thick.
  7. Adjust seasoning, add red pepper flakes if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

If pasta finishes before chicken is fully cooked, stir and cover off heat for a few minutes to finish cooking chicken. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best sauce texture. Stir gently and occasionally to prevent pasta sticking or breaking. Add extra cheese or a splash of milk/broth to adjust sauce thickness. For dairy-free, substitute coconut or almond milk and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. Use gluten-free pasta to make gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, garlic parmesan, chicken pasta, easy dinner, creamy pasta, weeknight meal, comfort food