One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and flavor. This dish transforms simple pantry ingredients into a creamy, cozy, and satisfying meal that fits effortlessly into the busiest weeknights. If you’re looking for one-pot pasta ideas or easy family dinner recipes, this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta checks every box with its minimal cleanup and creamy richness.
Introduction
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta has become a go-to solution for home cooks seeking quick weekday dinners and easy cozy dinner ideas. This recipe brings together tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and silky sauce in a single pot, making it ideal for easy at home meals. The keyword One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta naturally reflects what families crave most: simplicity, warmth, and flavor. Because everything cooks in one pot, this pasta stays creamy and comforting, making it a great option for picky eaters and adults alike. Whether you need a last-minute meal or a dependable weeknight recipe, this dish offers a reliable combination of convenience and taste. In many homes, one-pot meals have become must-have staples, and this recipe easily earns its place in your dinner rotation. The creamy texture, garlicky aroma, and soft noodles create a dish that feels indulgent while staying simple and approachable.
Table of Contents
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta (Keyword at the Beginning)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A comforting one-pot creamy garlic chicken pasta that blends tender chicken, garlic, and pasta into a rich, smooth sauce perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken breast
Olive oil
Garlic
Onion
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Pasta
Salt
Pepper
Italian seasoning
Butter
Parmesan cheese
Lemon juice
Parsley
Instructions
1. Brown the chicken.
2. Add onion and garlic.
3. Add pasta, broth, and seasonings.
4. Simmer with cream.
5. Stir in butter and Parmesan.
6. Add optional ingredients.
7. Finish with lemon and parsley.
8. Serve warm.
Notes
Add spinach for freshness or cream cheese for added creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken & Pasta Base
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breast (diced) | 1 lb |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 6 cloves |
| Onion (diced) | 1 small |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 1/4 cups |
| Uncooked pasta (penne or rotini) | 12 oz |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
Creamy Add-ins
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) | 3/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp |
Optional Flavors
| Ingredient | Use |
|---|---|
| Red pepper flakes | For heat |
| Spinach | Stir in at the end |
| Cherry tomatoes | Add during final simmer |
| Cream cheese | Extra creaminess |
Step-by-Step Instructions & Helpful Tips
1. Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned. This step builds flavor for the One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta base.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning.
2. Add Onion and Garlic
Stir in diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Garlic is the star of this dish, contributing to the cozy, warm flavor profile.
3. Add Pasta, Broth, and Seasonings
Pour in the pasta, chicken broth, salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Bring everything to a low boil.
Tip: Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking during the initial cook.
4. Add Cream and Simmer
Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Cover and allow the mixture to simmer for 12–14 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Tip: If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of broth or water.
5. Stir in Butter and Parmesan
Once the pasta reaches the perfect tenderness, add butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This transforms the sauce into a creamy, silky coating.
6. Add Optional Ingredients
For added freshness, stir in spinach or cherry tomatoes. Cream cheese can create an even richer texture if desired.
7. Finish with Lemon and Parsley
Squeeze fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. These bright flavors balance the creaminess.
8. Serve Immediately
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is best served warm, right off the stove. It’s creamy, comforting, and ideal for quick weekday dinners.
Tip: This dish reheats beautifully add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.
Conclusion
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a simple and delicious option for busy families who crave easy at home meals. Combining chicken, pasta, garlic, and cream in a single pot makes cooking efficient and cleanup quick. Whether serving picky adults, feeding kids, or planning a cozy dinner night, this recipe brings flavor and convenience together seamlessly. Keep it in your rotation for dependable one-pot meals that satisfy every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I swap the chicken in One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even shrimp as a quick alternative.
2. Is One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Its mild flavors, creamy texture, and familiar ingredients make it ideal for kids and adults.
3. Can I make One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta dairy-free?
Yes, substitute coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and omit Parmesan.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Add a splash of cream when reheating to restore smoothness.