If you are looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup, you have just stumbled on the perfect recipe. This One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce all simmered together in one pot, making it a winning dish for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something indulgent and satisfying. It’s rich yet simple, creamy yet fresh, and has those wonderful Italian-inspired flavors that make every bite feel like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role to build layers of flavor and texture while keeping things straightforward. From tender chicken and creamy half and half to sharp parmesan cheese and aromatic garlic, these ingredients come together beautifully without fuss.
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins: Using tenderloins or cutlets ensures quick, even cooking and tender bites of chicken throughout the pasta.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): A simple seasoning base that enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (divided): Adds fragrant herbs that bring warmth and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan: Used to coat the chicken, introducing a subtle nutty richness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps form a light crust on the chicken and thickens the sauce later on.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (not extra virgin): Provides a neutral, stable cooking fat for browning the chicken and sautéing veggies.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds creaminess and richness while cooking the onion and garlic.
- ½ medium yellow onion (finely diced): Offers sweetness and depth to the sauce base.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Injects bright, savory aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- 2 cups chicken stock: Builds the sauce’s base flavor and helps cook the pasta right in the pot.
- ¾ cup half and half (single cream in the UK): Creates the luscious, creamy texture without feeling too heavy.
- 8 ounces dried pasta (any shape): Absorbs the flavors of the sauce while providing comforting carbs.
- ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Stirred in at the end for a perfectly cheesy, thickened sauce.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Coat the Chicken
Begin by mixing ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, 2 tablespoons of shredded parmesan, and the all-purpose flour in a bowl. Coat each chicken tenderloin evenly in this mixture. This step is critical because it brings a flavorful crust to the chicken when cooked and later helps thicken the sauce with the flour.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet with a lid, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. This combination prevents burning while boosting flavor. Cook the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside, keeping it warm for later.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Using the same pot, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Toss in the finely diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes until translucent and soft. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, or until you can smell its fragrant aroma filling your kitchen. This builds the delicious flavor base for your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Deglaze and Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour in ½ cup of chicken stock to deglaze the pot, scraping up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom. Then add the remaining chicken stock and half and half. This liquid mixture is where your pasta will cook and absorb all those lovely flavors.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Add the dried pasta directly to the pot, stirring well to coat it evenly in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 11 to 13 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is perfectly al dente and creamy.
Step 6: Finish with Seasoning and Cheese
The sauce will appear thin at this point, but don’t worry because it will thicken shortly. Sprinkle in the remaining Italian seasoning and the ¾ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir everything well to meld the cheese into a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Finally, nestle the cooked chicken back into the pot, either placing it neatly on top or mixing it through the pasta. Your entire meal is ready to enjoy from just one pot!
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and brightness that contrasts the richness of the parmesan sauce perfectly. You might also grate some extra parmesan on top for those cheese lovers who want to up the flavor.
Side Dishes
Although this is a filling, complete meal, a fresh green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the creaminess with some acidity. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans bring a wholesome balance to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style straight from the pot at the center of the table for a cozy, communal experience. Alternatively, portion it into warm bowls and top with a drizzle of good olive oil or a few red pepper flakes to add color and a slight kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a perfect next-day quick lunch or dinner with minimal effort.
Freezing
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be aware that the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing, but reheating gently will help restore creaminess.
Reheating
When ready to eat leftovers, warm the pasta slowly in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! This One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is versatile, so you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I substitute for half and half if I don’t have it?
If you don’t have half and half, you can mix equal parts whole milk and heavy cream or use single cream if you are in the UK. These options maintain the creamy texture needed for the sauce.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?
Yes, browning the chicken adds depth of flavor and a lovely texture. It also enhances the overall taste of the sauce as the fond left in the pan is scraped up when deglazing.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the chicken and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to keep it hearty and delicious.
How can I make the sauce thicker if it’s too thin?
If the sauce seems too thin after cooking, you can stir in a bit more parmesan cheese or let it simmer gently uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a dish that comes together in one pot and tastes absolutely incredible. This One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a staple for those nights when you want a restaurant-worthy meal without the hassle. I hope you give it a try and let it become one of your go-to favorites that warms your heart and your appetite alike.
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One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make meal featuring tender chicken cooked with pasta in a rich, creamy parmesan sauce. Combining aromatic garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning, this dish comes together quickly in one pot, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner without the mess.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins (or chicken cutlets, boneless thighs)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (divided)
- 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Cooking Fats
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (not extra virgin)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ½ medium yellow onion (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Liquids and Pasta
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ¾ cup half and half (single cream in the UK)
- 8 ounces dried pasta (any shape)
Finishing Cheese
- ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Coat the Chicken: Combine ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan, and all-purpose flour in a bowl. Coat the chicken tenderloins evenly in this mixture or sprinkle the seasonings over the chicken thoroughly.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large Dutch oven or a deep skillet with a lid, melt 1 tablespoon butter and add 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the coated chicken and cook until fully done and golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pot, place it on a plate, and keep it warm.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Using the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and 1 teaspoon oil in the same pot, sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Add Liquids: Pour ½ cup chicken stock into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Then add the rest of the chicken stock and the half and half, stirring to combine.
- Add Pasta and Simmer: Stir in the dried pasta to fully coat it in the liquid mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 11-13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Finish the Sauce: The sauce may be thin at this stage. Add the remaining ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning and ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir thoroughly; the sauce will thicken as it cools.
- Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Return the cooked chicken to the pot, either topping the pasta or mixing it in before serving.
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you prefer; smaller shapes like penne or rotini work particularly well.
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded.
- Stir the pasta occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If the sauce is too thick after resting, you can loosen it with a splash of chicken stock or half and half.
- This recipe can be adapted to gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
