One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

📝 Ingredients List

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large skillet or deep frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add a splash more oil if needed and cook the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Combine liquids and pasta: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried herbs to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the dry pasta.
4. Cook to perfection: Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly. The sauce should be slightly thick and glossy. ✨
5. Final touch: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving! 😊

💡 Pro Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to bring back the creaminess.
• Substitutions: If you prefer a leaner protein, feel free to use turkey breast strips. For extra flavor, stir in some sun-dried tomatoes or fresh spinach at the end.
• Consistency Check: If the sauce is too thick, simply stir in an extra tablespoon of broth or water until you reach your desired texture.

FAQ

Can I use a different pasta shape? Yes, short pastas like bowtie or fusilli work best as they hold the creamy sauce perfectly.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Pasta dishes with heavy cream do not freeze well, so we recommend enjoying this fresh!