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
Scale
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.
