The aroma of garlic mingles with rich parmesan as you lift the lid on a bubbling pot, revealing a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta takes only about 30 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight dinner. It combines the simplicity of one-pot cooking with the creamy decadence of a restaurant-quality meal.
This recipe is ideal for busy families or anyone craving a satisfying meal without a lot of cleanup. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Plus, you can make it ahead and reheat it for a quick lunch the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot wonder, resulting in less cleanup.
- The creamy texture envelops each bite of pasta and chicken.
- Garlic and parmesan offer a rich and savory flavor.
- Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
For Serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Use low-sodium chicken broth for less salt.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Penne pasta can be replaced with any short pasta.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Chicken breast can be swapped for thighs for more flavor.
- Fresh parsley can be replaced with dried herbs.
How to Make It
Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious meal.
Heat the oil
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the chicken
Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown.
Sauté the garlic
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Simmer the broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Cook the pasta
Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Stir in the cream and cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, mixing until creamy and well combined.
Serve and garnish
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, cream-based sauces don’t freeze well.
Reheat: in a pot over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Tips for Best Results
- Cook the chicken in batches if your pot is small to avoid steaming.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a light meal.
- Serve with garlic bread for a comforting dinner experience.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine to enhance the flavors.
