One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

When busy weeknights hit, you want a meal that’s both comforting and quick to prepare. This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is my go-to recipe when I crave something creamy, flavorful, and fuss-free. The best part? It all comes together in one pot, which means less mess and more time enjoying your dinner.

this Recipe

You’ll love how the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta soak up that rich garlic parmesan sauce. This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes—great for busy nights
• One pot simplifies cooking and cleanup
• Rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce that clings to every bite
• Tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta in one dish
• Customizable with veggies or extra cheese

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your garlic parmesan chicken pasta delicious and creamy.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving

How to Make One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
4. Pour in chicken broth and milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Add uncooked penne pasta and stir well. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
6. Return chicken to the pot, sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using, and stir until cheese melts and sauce is creamy.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
8. Remove from heat, let sit for 2 minutes to thicken, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce and best flavor.
• If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be tender but still slightly firm to hold texture.
• Add steamed or sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may thicken as it cools, so add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other pasta shapes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works well because it holds the sauce nicely, you can substitute with rotini, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust cooking time slightly based on the pasta’s package instructions.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast. Keep in mind the flavor and creaminess will be slightly different.

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

Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers, especially in the last few minutes. Using enough liquid and the right heat helps prevent sticking as well.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Adding fresh spinach, peas, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can boost flavor and nutrition. Add quick-cooking veggies toward the end so they stay bright and tender.