Do Share Recipe

One Pot Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe | Easy & Creamy

I’m always on the lookout for dinner recipes that are both comforting and simple. This One Pot Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe quickly became a favorite in my house. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta makes it irresistible. I love that it all cooks in one pot—fewer dishes, more flavor, and zero stress.

Honestly, this is my go-to weeknight meal when I want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Sometimes, I like to mix things up and enjoy similar dishes like Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe or Beef Broccoli Noodle Stir Fry Recipe for a fun twist on weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this dish perfectly every time. I’ve added a few tips to help you get the best flavor and texture.

2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the chicken evenly.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking.
3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic gives the sauce a punchy flavor; avoid pre-minced for best taste.
2 cups marinara sauce – I recommend a high-quality jarred sauce or homemade for the richest flavor.
2 ½ cups chicken broth – using low-sodium broth helps control saltiness.
8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni) – pasta absorbs sauce beautifully; don’t overcook.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – adds classic flavor without extra effort.
Salt and black pepper to taste – adjust at the end to avoid over-salting.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – fresh, shredded mozzarella melts perfectly.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – fresh-grated is key for a nutty, sharp finish.
Optional: fresh basil for garnish – brightens the dish and adds color.

Note: Serves 4–6

Variations

You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences:

For a dairy-free version, substitute dairy-free cheese and unsweetened almond milk instead of regular cheese.
Swap chicken for turkey or shrimp for a different protein twist.
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
For a spicier kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet or Dutch oven – ideal for one-pot cooking and even heat distribution.
Wooden spoon – for stirring the pasta without scratching your pot.
Grater – for freshly shredding mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Knife and cutting board – to prep chicken and vegetables efficiently.

How to Make One Pot Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in your skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden and no longer pink inside. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Add minced garlic to the chicken and cook for 30–60 seconds. This releases the garlic’s aroma and infuses the chicken with flavor without burning it.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Broth

Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to blend and create a rich base for the pasta.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked pasta directly to the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce, about 10–12 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Optional: sprinkle with fresh basil.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my experience, these tweaks make the dish even more delicious:

I always grate my own cheese; it melts creamier than pre-shredded.
Don’t rush the simmering step—it allows the pasta to soak up maximum flavor.
If the sauce gets too thick, I add a splash of chicken broth for creaminess.
Toasted breadcrumbs on top add a satisfying crunch without extra frying.

How to Serve One Pot Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This dish is a showstopper even without elaborate plating. Serve it hot, directly from the pot for a rustic look, or plate individually for a dinner party. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a visually appealing dish. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate per serving:

Calories: 450–500 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fat: 18 g

This meal is rich in protein and balanced for a satisfying dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pasta in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the sauce thickens.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this dish stands out:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Creamy and Comforting: Rich cheese and tender chicken make every bite satisfying.
Versatile: Easily swap proteins or add vegetables to suit your taste.
Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a busy family, or hosting friends, this One Pot Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and practical choice. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Ben Carraoli