One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

What is One Pot Garlic Chicken Pasta?

One Pot Garlic Chicken Pasta is a culinary marvel designed for efficiency without sacrificing flavor. This popular weeknight dinner combines succulent chicken, aromatic garlic, and your favorite pasta shape, all simmered together in a single cooking vessel. The magic lies in how the starch from the pasta releases into the liquid, creating a naturally thickened and incredibly creamy sauce right in the pot. It’s a complete meal that minimizes cleanup, making it a dream for busy individuals and families alike. Forget juggling multiple pans; with this method, everything cooks harmoniously, infusing every bite with rich, savory goodness.

The perfect easy weeknight dinner

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for a homemade meal can be challenging. This one pot pasta recipe rises to the occasion, offering a simple yet satisfying solution. Its streamlined process means less hands-on time and more moments for you to relax. From prep to plate, you’re looking at a commitment of around 30 minutes, which is less time than ordering takeout. Imagine coming home after a long day and effortlessly whipping up a warm, comforting meal that tastes like it took hours. For another simple and delicious option, consider our easy honey garlic chicken recipe.

Why it’s a family favorite

Beyond its convenience, this creamy garlic chicken pasta has become a true family favorite due to its universally appealing flavors. The tender chicken breast, coated in a luscious, garlic-infused sauce, paired with perfectly cooked pasta, creates a harmonious blend that even picky eaters adore. It’s hearty, comforting, and customizable, allowing you to tweak seasonings or add extra vegetables to suit everyone’s preferences. The “one pot” aspect also makes it a fantastic teaching opportunity for younger chefs, demonstrating how a complex-tasting dish can emerge from such a straightforward cooking process. It truly embodies what a satisfying home-cooked meal should be: simple, delicious, and brings everyone to the table.

Gather Ingredients for This Pasta Recipe

Creating this delightful one pot creamy garlic chicken pasta starts with selecting the right ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring common pantry staples and fresh components that are readily available. Having everything prepped and measured before you begin cooking will ensure a smooth and enjoyable process, especially when you’re aiming for that 30-minute completion time. Quality ingredients contribute significantly to the overall taste, so opt for fresh chicken and good quality dairy for the best results.

Essential items for your dish

To begin your one pot journey, you’ll need:

• Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• Pasta: Any short pasta shape works wonderfully. Penne, rotini, or farfalle are excellent choices as they hold the creamy sauce well. Learn more about various types of pasta on Wikipedia.
• Chicken broth: Low-sodium chicken broth forms the flavorful liquid base for cooking the pasta and creating the sauce.
• Heavy cream: This is the secret to achieving that luxurious, velvety texture in your sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, umami depth and helps to thicken the sauce.
• Olive oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing the garlic.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

Key flavor components listed

While the above list covers the structural components, the heart of this dish—its signature creamy garlic flavor—comes from a few star ingredients. Of course, fresh garlic is paramount. Do not shy away from using a generous amount; it truly makes the dish sing. A good quality Italian seasoning blend or dried oregano can also add an aromatic herbaceous note. Red pepper flakes, if you enjoy a touch of heat, can provide a subtle warmth that complements the richness of the cream. Finally, a touch of fresh parsley, added at the end, not only provides a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens the entire meal. These elements work in concert to create a robust and inviting flavor profile that sets this one pot pasta apart as a truly special dinner option.

Quick Prep for Delicious Chicken Pasta

One of the most appealing aspects of this one pot creamy garlic chicken pasta is the minimal preparation required. You can have all your ingredients ready to go in just about 10 minutes, setting you up for a smooth and swift cooking experience. This efficiency is key for fitting delicious home-cooked meals into a busy schedule.

Only 10 minutes to start

Here’s how to maximize your prep time for this quick and easy dish:

1. Chop the chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps achieve a golden-brown sear, locking in moisture and flavor.
2. Mince the garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for that bold, aromatic flavor. You’ll need several cloves, but adjust to taste. Pre-minced garlic can substitute, though fresh offers superior taste.
3. Measure liquids and cheese: Accurately measure chicken broth, heavy cream, and grate your Parmesan cheese. Having these ready eliminates scrambling and allows seamless addition during cooking.
4. Gather pasta and seasonings: Ensure your chosen short pasta is within reach, along with salt, pepper, and any other desired additions like Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes.

By completing these simple steps, you create an organized cooking station, often called “mise en place.” This speeds up cooking and reduces stress, making your kitchen time more enjoyable. When everything is prepped, you can focus on execution, ensuring each culinary step contributes to a fantastic final dish.

Cooking One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

The beauty of this one pot recipe truly shines during the cooking phase, as all the flavors meld together in a single pan. This approach not only saves on cleanup but also infuses every ingredient with the rich essence of the dish. Following these steps carefully will ensure your chicken is tender, your garlic is fragrant, and your broth forms the perfect foundation for a creamy sauce.

Browning chicken in olive oil

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, allowing it to shimmer slightly. Once hot, add your bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Cook the chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side, until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through. This browning step is crucial, as it develops a depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction that will permeate the entire dish. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate. It will be added back later to prevent it from becoming overcooked or tough. This foundational step is similar to starting many crispy parmesan chicken recipes.

Adding minced garlic and broth

With the chicken removed, reduce the heat to medium. Add a splash more olive oil if needed, then introduce your minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish’s delicate flavor balance. Immediately after the garlic is aromatic, pour in the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot; these “fond” bits are packed with flavor and will dissolve into the broth, enriching the sauce. This liquid base will soon become the flavorful cooking medium for your pasta, ensuring that every strand soaks up the savory goodness right from the start. For more cooking methods, explore our one-pot/one-pan collection.

How to Cook Pasta in One Pot

The unique appeal of this recipe hinges on cooking the pasta directly in the same pot as your sauce base. This method not only simplifies the process but also allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors of the broth and garlic, resulting in an incredibly cohesive and tasty dish. The starch released by the pasta during cooking also acts as a natural thickener, contributing to the creamy texture of the final sauce. Mastering this step is key to achieving perfectly cooked pasta without it becoming mushy.

Bring liquid to a boil

After adding the chicken broth and scraping up the fond, increase the heat to bring the liquid to a rolling boil. This is an important step to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and efficiently. While the broth is heating, you can quickly taste it and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper if necessary. Remember that the pasta will absorb much of this seasoned liquid, so a slightly bolder flavor at this stage is acceptable. Once boiling vigorously, you are ready for the next crucial step in preparing your one pot pasta dish.

Cook pasta until al dente

Carefully add your chosen short pasta shape directly into the boiling broth. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Give it a good stir to prevent it from sticking together, especially in the initial few minutes of cooking. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. Cook for the time recommended on the pasta package, minus 1-2 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. This means it should be cooked through but still have a slight, pleasant bite to it. Periodically stir the pasta throughout the cooking process to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. Towards the end of the cooking time, check the pasta’s doneness and the liquid level, adding a splash more broth if the pot seems too dry. This precise timing is essential for the ideal pasta texture.

Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce

With the pasta perfectly cooked al dente and the chicken ready, it’s time to transform your savory broth into the star of the show: a rich, creamy garlic sauce. This final stage brings all the elements together, coating every piece of chicken and pasta in a luxurious, flavorful embrace. The interaction between the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the starchy pasta water creates a sauce that is both indulgent and incredibly satisfying, making this a truly memorable sauce for your pasta dish.

Stir in cream and cheese

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking and most of the liquid has been absorbed, reduce the heat to low. Now, pour in the heavy cream and stir it gently through the pasta and broth mixture. Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a homogeneous and glossy consistency. At this point, you can return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them among the pasta so they can warm through and absorb the delicious flavors of the developing sauce. This step is where the magic happens, as the sauce takes on its signature velvety texture and rich flavor profile.

Cook until sauce thickens

Continue to gently simmer the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should visibly thicken as it heats, clinging beautifully to the pasta. If the sauce appears too thick for your preference, you can thin it out with a small splash of additional chicken broth or even a little milk. Conversely, if it seems a bit too thin, allow it to simmer for another minute or two, uncovered, to reduce slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust any seasonings, adding more salt or pepper if needed. This final simmering ensures that the sauce achieves the perfect consistency, ready to be served and enjoyed immediately.

Garnish and Serve Your Pasta Dish

The presentation of a dish is often as important as its taste, and this creamy garlic chicken pasta is no exception. A simple garnish can elevate the visual appeal and add a burst of freshness, signaling to your family or guests that a thoughtful and delicious meal awaits them. Don’t skip this final, easy step to make your dish truly shine.

Fresh parsley for garnish

Once your One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta has reached its ideal consistency and flavor, it’s ready for its finishing touch. Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley. The vibrant green of the parsley provides a beautiful contrast to the creamy white and golden hues of the pasta and chicken, making the dish look even more appetizing. Beyond aesthetics, fresh parsley also introduces a subtle, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the cream, offering a pleasant palate cleanser with each bite. Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For more visual inspiration, check out our latest posts on Instagram @carinarecipes20 or discover delightful food photography on Pinterest CarinaRecipes20.

Total Time for Quick Pasta Recipe

Efficiency is a cornerstone of the One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta. This recipe is specifically designed to fit into even the most hectic schedules, delivering a complete and satisfying meal without requiring hours of preparation or cooking. Its quick turnaround makes it an ideal candidate for those nights when time is of the essence but a homemade dinner is still desired.

Ready in just 30 minutes

From the moment you start chopping to the second you spoon out your first serving, this entire pasta dish can be on your table in approximately 30 minutes. This includes the initial 10 minutes of quick prep, followed by about 20 minutes of active cooking and simmering. The one-pot method significantly cuts down on traditional cooking times by consolidating steps and reducing the need for multiple heat sources. This speed makes it a superior choice for a quick weeknight dinner, allowing you more time to relax or engage in other activities rather than being confined to the kitchen.

Serves four hungry people

This recipe is perfectly scaled to provide a generous serving for four hungry individuals. The combination of tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce ensures that each portion is filling and satisfying. If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, the recipe can easily be doubled; just make sure you use a sufficiently large pot to accommodate the increased volume of ingredients. For smaller households, leftovers store wonderfully, offering another convenient meal for lunch or dinner the next day. It’s a versatile dish that adapts well to various household sizes, always delivering on its promise of a delicious and substantial meal.

Nutrition Facts for Each Serving

Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is an important part of a balanced diet. While specific figures can vary based on exact ingredient brands and portion sizes, we can provide estimated nutrition facts for one serving of this One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta. This information can help you make informed dietary choices without sacrificing the enjoyment of a delicious, home-cooked meal. Always remember that these are approximations.

Calories and protein details

A single serving of this rich and satisfying pasta dish is estimated to contain approximately 550-650 calories. This energy comes from a balanced mix of macronutrients. For protein, you can expect around 35-45 grams per serving. The protein primarily comes from the lean chicken breast, which is an excellent source of essential amino acids vital for muscle repair and growth, contributing significantly to the meal’s satiety. This makes it a hearty and substantial meal for active individuals or those looking for a high-protein dinner option.

Fat and carb information

Regarding fats, each serving typically contains about 25-35 grams of fat. A significant portion of this comes from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which contribute to the dish’s desirable creamy texture and rich flavor. While some of this is saturated fat, it’s balanced by other beneficial nutrients. As for carbohydrates, you can anticipate approximately 40-50 grams per serving. The pasta is the primary source of carbohydrates, providing energy. Opting for whole wheat pasta can slightly increase fiber content, offering additional digestive benefits. These figures provide a general overview to help you incorporate this delicious recipe into your dietary plan effectively.

Tips for One Pot Chicken Pasta

While the One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe is straightforward, a few expert tips can help you tailor it to your preferences and ensure consistently perfect results. These suggestions are designed to empower you to customize the dish, making it uniquely yours while maintaining its delicious core. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different additions and adjustments to discover your ideal version.

Adjust garlic to your taste

Garlic is a star in this dish, but its intensity is a matter of personal preference. The recipe calls for a generous amount, designed to deliver a robust flavor. However, if you’re a true garlic aficionado, feel free to add an extra clove or two for an even bolder punch. Conversely, if you prefer a milder garlic presence, you can slightly reduce the quantity. A helpful trick is to use both minced fresh garlic at the sautéing stage and a sprinkle of garlic powder when seasoning the chicken or broth for layered garlic flavor. Remember, the goal is to create a dish that perfectly suits your palate, so don’t be afraid to adjust!

Use any preferred pasta type

The beauty of a one pot pasta recipe is its adaptability, especially when it comes to the pasta itself. While short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle are excellent choices because they cook evenly and hold the sauce well, you are certainly not limited. You can experiment with other shapes like orecchiette, cavatappi, or even broken spaghetti, as long as they fit comfortably in your pot and are mostly submerged in the liquid. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly with different pasta types, so always refer to the package instructions and begin checking for al dente a couple of minutes before the suggested time. This flexibility allows you to use what you have on hand or explore new textures and shapes, keeping your weeknight dinners exciting.

Easy Weeknight Dinner for Families

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta stands out as an exemplary choice for an easy weeknight dinner, particularly for busy families. Its combination of speed, minimal cleanup, and universally appealing flavors makes it a go-to option that can alleviate the stress of mealtime. Offering a wholesome and hearty meal, it ensures that even on the busiest evenings, everyone can gather around the table for a satisfying home-cooked experience. This recipe truly simplifies the art of feeding a family well.

Simple family meal ideas

While this creamy garlic chicken pasta is fantastic on its own, it can also be part of a broader rotation of simple, family-friendly meals. When planning your week, consider integrating dishes that offer similar benefits: quick preparation, healthy components, and flavors loved by all. Alongside this one pot wonder, here are a few other ideas to keep your family dinners exciting and manageable:

• Sheet Pan Dinners: Roast chicken and vegetables on a single sheet pan for minimal effort and maximum flavor.
• Taco Night: A build-your-own taco bar is always a hit, allowing everyone to customize their meal.
• Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole: Comforting, hearty, and often prepped in advance, casseroles are a classic for a reason.
• Soup and Grilled Cheese: A timeless, comforting combination perfect for cooler evenings.
• Stir-fries: Quick to cook, customizable with various proteins and veggies, and great for using up leftovers.

By having a repertoire of such simple yet delicious meals, you can ensure that weeknights remain stress-free and full of enjoyable family moments, proving that quality time doesn’t have to be sacrificed for a homemade meal. The key is finding recipes that deliver on both taste and convenience.

How to Store Leftover Creamy Pasta

Having leftovers of this delicious One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a wonderful bonus, offering a convenient meal for the next day’s lunch or a quick dinner. Proper storage is essential to maintain its quality, flavor, and safety. Follow these simple guidelines to ensure your creamy pasta remains fresh and enjoyable for future meals, making your meal prep even more efficient.

Use an airtight container

Once the pasta has cooled to room temperature (this is crucial to prevent condensation and bacterial growth), transfer it into an airtight container. Choose a container that is appropriately sized for the amount of pasta you have, minimizing air exposure. Air is the enemy of freshness, contributing to drying out and spoilage. A good quality, food-safe container with a tight-fitting lid will protect your pasta from absorbing refrigerator odors and keep it moist and flavorful. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the pasta to maximize its shelf life.

Refrigerate for future enjoyment

Place the sealed airtight container with your leftover creamy garlic chicken pasta in the refrigerator. It can be safely stored for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help restore the creamy consistency, as pasta can absorb a lot of liquid as it cools and sits. Stir frequently until heated through. Microwaving in short intervals, stirring between each, also works well. With proper storage, your one pot pasta will taste almost as good as it did fresh, providing another delightful and effortless meal.