One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

If you’re craving a comforting dinner that’s quick to make and full of flavor, this garlic parmesan chicken pasta is your go-to dish. Made all in one pot, it’s an easy recipe that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta.

this Recipe

You’ll love how this one pot garlic parmesan chicken pasta brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that feels indulgent but comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All-in-one pot means minimal cleanup and less hassle.
• Rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce with tender chicken.
• Ready in under 30 minutes for quick weeknight dinners.
• Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients.
• Customizable with veggies or spice to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your garlic parmesan chicken pasta deliciously creamy and flavorful.

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving

How to Make One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

1. Heat a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, then add the uncooked penne pasta. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
6. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce and richest flavor.
• Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and burning on the bottom.
• If the sauce gets too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash of extra milk or broth to loosen it up.
• Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Feel free to add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will thicken as it cools, so add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

You can also freeze this dish, but the texture may change slightly. To freeze, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with other short pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini. Just adjust cooking time slightly based on the pasta type.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and creaminess may be slightly different.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor. Just cook them thoroughly until no longer pink inside before adding the pasta.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot?

Stir the pasta frequently while it simmers and make sure there is enough liquid. Adding a bit more broth or milk if needed helps keep the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.