Parmesan Chicken Pasta
One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. This recipe combines tender chicken, a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one pot for easy cleanup!
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of this Italian-inspired meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, this dish is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.
Star Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Chicken tenderloins or thighs – Tender and juicy, the star protein of this dish.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, creamy richness to the sauce.
- Dried pasta – Your favorite pasta shape absorbs all the delicious flavors in the pot.
- Garlic – Infuses the sauce with a bold, aromatic kick.
- Chicken stock – A flavorful base that enhances the pasta’s creaminess.
- Half and half – Balances the richness with a light, creamy texture.
Quick Steps to Creamy Perfection
- Coat chicken in a savory parmesan and seasoning mixture, then cook until golden.
- Sauté onions and garlic in the same pot to build flavor.
- Deglaze with chicken stock and add liquid ingredients.
- Simmer pasta until al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in parmesan cheese for a luscious, thickened sauce.
- Reintroduce the chicken for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Recipe Tips & Variations
Achieve the perfect creamy sauce by stirring frequently while the pasta simmers. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the pot thoroughly to capture the browned bits from the chicken.
Enhance the dish with added vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added color and nutrition. You can also experiment with long pasta like fettuccine or linguine for an elegant presentation. Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially when using different parmesan varieties.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken stock to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid overcooking to preserve the pasta’s consistency.
Enjoy the convenience and flavor of this delightful one-pot dish—perfect for any occasion!
Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces 225 g dried pasta, any shape
- ¾ cup 64 g shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 cups 480 ml chicken stock
- ¾ cup 180 ml half and half (single cream in the UK)
- 1 pound 450 g chicken tenderloins or boneless thighs
- ½ medium yellow onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons 30 ml olive oil (not extra virgin)
- 2 tablespoons 15 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons 26 g butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the flour, ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of shredded parmesan in a small bowl. Coat the chicken tenderloins evenly in this mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle the seasonings directly onto the chicken.
- In a large Dutch oven or a deep skillet with a lid, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook the chicken until thoroughly cooked, then remove it and set aside, keeping it warm.
- Using the remaining butter and oil in the same pot, sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot with ½ cup of chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Pour in the rest of the chicken stock along with the half and half.
- Add the pasta, stirring to coat it evenly in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover with a lid and let the pasta cook for 11-13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an al dente texture.
- As the sauce will initially be thin, add the remaining ¾ cup of shredded parmesan cheese and the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir thoroughly to combine. The sauce will thicken as it cools slightly.
- Season the sauce to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed. Return the chicken to the pot, placing it on top of the pasta or mixing it in.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet lid fits snugly to maintain heat during the pasta’s simmering process. Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan.
- Cooking times may vary based on the pasta shape. Taste after 11 minutes and continue cooking if softer pasta is desired.
- For long pasta, consider breaking it in half to fit the pot more easily.
- Additional vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach can be added for variety and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.