Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American/Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 12 oz penne pasta; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional); ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

Some dishes just speak comfort from the very first bite—and this One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne does exactly that. I first made it on a chilly evening when I craved something filling but didn’t want to juggle multiple pots and pans. What started as a quick fix turned into one of my go-to comfort meals. The aroma of garlic sautéing in butter, the way the parmesan melts into the sauce, and the golden sear on the chicken—every detail of this dish is pure magic.

I love that it’s a one-pot recipe—yes, even the pasta cooks in the same pan, soaking up all that rich, creamy flavor. It’s a dream for busy weeknights, dinner guests, or even when I just want to spoil myself with a bowl of velvety, cheesy pasta topped with juicy chicken. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this creamy garlic parmesan penne fits right into your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

This dish is pure satisfaction in a bowl. The garlic-infused cream sauce clings to each penne noodle, the parmesan adds a nutty sharpness, and the chicken—well-seasoned and perfectly seared—completes every bite. It’s cozy, indulgent, and easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Plus, fewer dishes to clean!

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne?

While penne is the obvious and classic choice (and what I used here), you can definitely experiment with other short pastas. Rotini, rigatoni, or even farfalle will hold onto that creamy garlic parmesan sauce beautifully. The key is to use pasta that has nooks and ridges so it can absorb all that flavor and not just let it slide off. I’ve even made this with cavatappi for a fun twist—it still came out just as delicious.

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions or just missing a few ingredients, here are some easy swaps:

Chicken: Swap for turkey breast, cooked shrimp, or even sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk (for dairy-free) works well—though it may slightly change the richness.
Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can step in with no problem.
Garlic: If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder (start with 1 tsp) can save the day.
Pasta: Gluten-free penne works just fine—just keep an eye on cook time as it may vary.
Butter: Use olive oil if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free base.
Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you want a little heat.

These swaps keep the heart of the dish intact while giving you some freedom to make it your own.

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

Each ingredient in this dish plays a role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Sliced thin for quick cooking and a beautiful golden sear. They add protein and heartiness to the dish.
Olive Oil & Butter – Used together for searing and richness; the butter adds creaminess while the olive oil prevents burning.
Fresh Garlic – The star of the sauce. It infuses the cream with a warm, savory depth.
Chicken Broth – Builds the base of the sauce and allows the pasta to cook right in the pot, absorbing extra flavor.
Heavy Cream – Essential for that luscious, creamy texture. It binds everything together with a silky finish.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds nutty, salty complexity and thickens the sauce naturally.
Penne Pasta – A sturdy pasta that holds its shape and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Italian Seasoning – A fragrant mix that complements the garlic and parmesan without overpowering them.
Salt & Black Pepper – Simple but crucial. Season to taste to bring out every flavor.
Fresh Parsley (Optional) – Adds a bright, fresh finish to cut through the richness.
Red Chili Flakes (Optional) – For a bit of a kick if you’re craving spice.

These ingredients create a balanced, satisfying one-pot meal that’s both easy to cook and hard to stop eating.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a bit of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through—about 4–5 minutes per side. Once done, transfer them to a plate and cover loosely.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and add a little more butter if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let it brown—just enough to release that deep garlic aroma.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Then, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Cook

Add the uncooked penne directly into the sauce. Stir it well, reduce the heat slightly, and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has thickened into a sauce—about 13–15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Stir

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated parmesan cheese. It will melt into the sauce, thickening it even more and adding that signature salty richness.

Step 6: Return Chicken to the Pot

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pot, laying it on top of the creamy pasta. Let it heat through for a couple of minutes, then give everything a gentle toss if you want it fully mixed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and red chili flakes if desired. Drizzle with a little olive oil or finish with more parmesan. Serve hot!

How Long to Cook One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

This dish comes together surprisingly fast for something so rich and satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

Searing the Chicken: 8–10 minutes total (depending on thickness)
Sautéing Garlic & Building Sauce: 2–3 minutes
Cooking the Pasta in Sauce: 13–15 minutes
Finishing and Garnishing: 2–3 minutes

Total cook time: About 25–30 minutes.
That’s all it takes to get a complete, restaurant-quality meal on your table.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

Use freshly grated parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can lead to a grainy sauce.
Don’t rush the sear. Let the chicken get that golden crust—it adds flavor depth and texture.
Stir the pasta occasionally. Since it’s cooking in a thickening sauce, this helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
Add more broth if needed. If the sauce gets too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, a splash of broth (or water) will loosen things up.
Let the chicken rest. Before slicing, let it sit for a few minutes—this keeps it juicy and flavorful when added back in.
Taste and adjust. Once the cheese is in, taste the sauce. A touch more salt, pepper, or garlic might bring it to life.
Finish with flair. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of chili flakes right before serving gives it that gourmet touch.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple one-pot meal can go sideways with a few common missteps. Keep these in mind:

Overcooking the Chicken: Thin slices cook fast—if you leave them too long, they’ll dry out. Aim for a golden sear and remove as soon as they’re done.
Using Pre-Grated Cheese: It doesn’t melt well and can make your sauce lumpy. Always go for freshly grated parmesan.
Forgetting to Stir the Pasta: Since it cooks in the sauce, stirring occasionally prevents clumping or uneven cooking.
Boiling the Sauce Too Hard: A gentle simmer is key. High heat can reduce the sauce too quickly and scorch the bottom.
Skipping Seasoning Checks: Add salt and pepper in layers—underseasoned pasta can taste flat, especially in creamy dishes.
Adding Cheese Too Early: Wait until the pasta is fully cooked and the heat is lowered before stirring in the cheese to avoid curdling.

What to Serve With One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne?

This dish is rich and filling, but a few well-paired sides or add-ons can take it to another level.

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

Perfect for mopping up every drop of that creamy sauce.

Roasted or Steamed Broccoli

A bit of green freshness and crunch adds great contrast to the creamy texture.

Simple Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons are always a hit.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze—light and refreshing.

Cucumber and Red Onion Salad

Bright, tangy, and crisp—adds a cooling counterpoint to the richness.

A Glass of White Wine

Something dry like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs beautifully.

Sautéed Garlic Green Beans

Garlic-on-garlic? Yes, please—especially with a squeeze of lemon.

Marinated Olives or Antipasto Platter

A great option if you’re serving this for guests or a dinner party spread.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? You’re in luck—this dish holds up really well for next-day lunches or dinners.

Refrigerator: Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container. It’ll stay good for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze it, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly when reheated. Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
To Reheat: Add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or cream before microwaving or reheating on the stove over low heat. This helps loosen up the sauce and bring back that creamy consistency.

Pro tip: If possible, reheat gently and stir frequently to prevent the cheese from separating.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: ~620 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Trans Fat: 0g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on portion size, substitutions, or brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from curdling?

Make sure the heat is reduced before adding the cheese. High heat can cause dairy to separate, so stir the cheese in gently over low heat after the pasta is cooked.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes! If you’re using rotisserie or leftover chicken, skip the searing step. Just shred or slice and add it to the pot during the final few minutes to heat through.

Is it okay to use milk instead of cream?

You can, but it will make the sauce thinner and less rich. If using milk, add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken it.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Watch the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta tends to cook faster and may require more frequent stirring.

What if the sauce is too thick before the pasta is done?

Simply add more chicken broth or a bit of water, a splash at a time, to keep the pasta cooking and the sauce smooth.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes work beautifully. Add them in just before or after the pasta, depending on how soft you want them.

How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or stir in a spoonful of chili paste with the broth for a bit of kick.

Does this dish work for meal prep?

It does! It reheats well and can be portioned into containers for 3–4 meals. Just add a splash of liquid when reheating to revive the sauce.

Conclusion

One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a soul-satisfying dish that delivers comfort, richness, and flavor with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself to something indulgent yet easy, this recipe ticks all the right boxes. Once you taste that garlicky cream sauce wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta and juicy chicken, you’ll understand why it’s worth keeping in your regular dinner rotation.