If you’re craving a comforting meal that combines creamy goodness with hearty chicken and pasta, look no further than this One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—packed with tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked pasta, and melty cheese, all blended together effortlessly in a single pot. This recipe is a true game-changer for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a pile of dishes to clean up afterwards. Trust me, once you try this, it will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, yet they are all straightforward and easy to find. Each one adds something special—from the savory chicken and aromatic garlic to the rich cheeses that create that luscious gooeyness.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking and ease of eating.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps brown the chicken for wonderful flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with its classic aromatic punch essential to Italian-inspired meals.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory base that softens beautifully when sautéed.
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that gives moisture and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice: Adds juiciness and a slight acidity to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings all the elements together with a subtle herbaceous note.
- 8 ounces uncooked penne or rotini pasta: The perfect pasta shapes to hold onto sauce and cheese.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a flavorful, gooey layer of cheesy delight.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty tang to complement the cheddar.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: A fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness for serving.
How to Make One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook them until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is where rich flavor starts building, so don’t rush it. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t worry, we’ll bring it all back together soon!
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add a touch more olive oil if needed and toss in the diced onion. Let it cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for just 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick step wakes up the taste buds and creates a fragrant base for the sauce.
Step 3: Add Liquids, Seasoning, and Pasta
Stir in the chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes with their juice, and Italian seasoning, mixing everything together. Then add in your uncooked pasta. Bring the whole pot to a boil, which will start cooking the pasta and blend all those amazing flavors.
Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the pasta while it absorbs the liquid and becomes tender but still perfectly al dente. This one-pot method lets the pasta soak up all the delicious broth and tomato flavors.
Step 5: Stir in Cream, Cheese, and Chicken
Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir enthusiastically until the cheese melts into a glossy, creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This is the magical moment where the One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe truly shines.
How to Serve One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also breathes fresh complexity into each bite. You can also consider adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Side Dishes
This cheesy, hearty pasta can stand proudly on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables balances the meal with contrasting textures and freshness. These sides bring brightness and crunch, making the overall experience more rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe directly in rustic bowls with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top. For gatherings, transfer to a casserole dish, top with some additional cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil for a couple of minutes to create a golden crust that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish reheats wonderfully and makes for an excellent leftover lunch or dinner. Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the texture appealing.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe in meal-sized portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of pasta may slightly change after freezing, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Reheating
When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce seems thick to bring back that luscious creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini work great because they hold sauce well, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even macaroni based on what you have on hand.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you do not have heavy cream, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or cashew cream works well too.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe is very kid-friendly, with familiar flavors and creamy, cheesy pasta that most kids love. You can reduce seasoning or skip any spicy additions to keep it mild.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Fresh or frozen veggies like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas can be stirred in either during the simmering step or just before adding the cheese for a boost of color and nutrition.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the broth. This enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe truly feels like a little bit of magic in your kitchen—a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and that unbeatable homemade comfort food vibe. I encourage you to try it out soon; it’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, happy, full, and asking for seconds. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Print
One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting meal that combines tender bite-sized chicken pieces with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich tomato and cheese sauce. Made all in one pot, it’s an easy, flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings
- 8 ounces uncooked penne or rotini pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add bite-sized chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion for 2–3 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, Italian seasoning, and uncooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Pasta: Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Combine with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and the cooked chicken. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts into a rich, creamy sauce.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve the pasta hot.
Notes
- You can use any short pasta you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
- This dish reheats well and is ideal for leftovers or meal prepping lunches or dinners.
