Description
This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a hearty and comforting meal that combines tender diced chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Made entirely in one pot, it’s a quick and easy dinner option that requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins and Dairy
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
Seasonings and Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Dice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the pot: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add broth and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the penne pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid.
- Simmer pasta: Allow the pasta to cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add cream: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to integrate the flavors.
- Incorporate cheeses: Mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until they melt completely and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Final seasoning: Taste the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed for your preferred flavor balance.
- Serve: Dish out the creamy cheesy chicken pasta while hot, garnishing with fresh parsley for a bright touch of flavor and color.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- To make this dish lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk option, but be aware the sauce may be less rich.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes during the seasoning phase.
- Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in broth before covering to prevent uneven cooking.
- This recipe can be adapted with other pasta shapes such as fusilli or rigatoni depending on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
