One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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I can never resist the comfort of a creamy pasta dish, especially when it comes together in one pot. This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of those recipes I find myself turning to again and again. It’s incredibly easy, packed with flavor, and comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something delicious but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this pasta dish special for me is the harmony of flavors. The golden, seared chicken mingles perfectly with the rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, all enveloping perfectly cooked pasta. Plus, fewer dishes to wash is always a win in my book! Let’s dive into why you’ll love it too.

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Why You’ll Love This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

First off, it’s all about simplicity. Everything cooks in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. The sauce is rich, creamy, and indulgent—thanks to the magic of Parmesan and heavy cream balanced with fragrant garlic. The chicken provides that tender, juicy bite with a gorgeous sear, and the pasta soaks up every bit of flavor from the sauce.

I also love how flexible this dish is. You can adjust it to your preferences—add some veggies, swap the pasta, or make it lighter. And the best part? It feels like a restaurant-quality meal made right at home.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

When it comes to the chicken for this One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I personally love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly, develop a nice golden crust when seared, and pair beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce.

However, if you prefer something even juicier, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic option too. They add a bit more richness and are very forgiving when cooking, staying tender and flavorful. Whichever you choose, make sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and mix well with the pasta.

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Options for Substitutions

This recipe is quite adaptable, which is why I love making it again and again. Here are some easy substitutions you can try:

• Chicken: Swap with cooked shrimp, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even turkey.
• Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti will work. Use what you have on hand!
• Cream: If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
• Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan is best, but pre-shredded will work in a pinch. Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used if needed (start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste).
• Add-ins: Toss in spinach, broccoli, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition.

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Ready to see what you’ll need to make this? Let’s move on to the ingredients!

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Ingredients for This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Every ingredient in this dish plays a key role in building flavor and creating that creamy, irresistible texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

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Chicken breast
I use boneless, skinless chicken breast for quick cooking and a lean protein that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Olive oil
A drizzle of olive oil helps sear the chicken to golden perfection, adding depth to the flavor.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic is essential here—it infuses the entire dish with its unmistakable aroma and rich taste.

Chicken broth
This not only helps cook the pasta but also builds a flavorful base for the sauce.

Heavy cream
To achieve a luscious, velvety sauce, heavy cream is the key. It thickens beautifully as the pasta cooks.

Pasta
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best—they hold onto the sauce wonderfully and make every bite satisfying.

Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it a nutty, salty richness that’s simply divine.

Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors in the dish.

Parsley (optional)
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness at the end.

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With just these few ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a creamy, dreamy pasta dinner. Now, let’s get cooking!

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 4–5 minutes, turning to brown all sides. Once the chicken is golden and cooked through, transfer it to a plate and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pot, add another splash of olive oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—this step builds the flavor foundation for the sauce.

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Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add your pasta of choice and stir well to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick together. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook the pasta for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.

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Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Chicken

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the Parmesan cheese. The sauce will thicken beautifully as the cheese melts. Return the cooked chicken to the pot, folding it in gently so it’s coated in the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce.

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Step 5: Final Touches

Taste the dish and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can loosen it with a splash of extra chicken broth or cream. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

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And that’s it—your One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is ready to serve! Next, let’s talk about how long to cook and a few tips for getting it just right.

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How Long to Cook the One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

From start to finish, this dish typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes to prepare:

• Searing the chicken: 4–5 minutes
• Sautéing the garlic: 30 seconds
• Cooking the pasta: 10–12 minutes
• Finishing with cheese and chicken: 2–3 minutes

The key is to simmer the pasta just until it’s al dente, allowing it to soak up the rich broth and cream. By the time everything comes together, you’ll have a perfectly creamy pasta ready in no time.

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Tips for Perfect One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Use freshly grated Parmesan.
Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating it yourself ensures the creamiest sauce.

Cut the chicken evenly.
Uniform pieces cook more evenly and stay juicy. Aim for bite-sized chunks so they blend nicely with the pasta.

Don’t overcook the garlic.
It only needs about 30 seconds to release its aroma. Burnt garlic can overpower the dish.

Stir the pasta occasionally.
This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Adjust the sauce to your liking.
If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a splash of broth or cream to loosen it to your preferred consistency.

Season at the end.
Once the cheese is added, taste and adjust the salt and pepper. Parmesan brings its own salty punch.

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Next, I’ll share a few common mistakes to avoid—and some great ideas for what to serve alongside this creamy pasta!

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Adding cheese too early.
If you add the Parmesan while the liquid is still rapidly boiling, it can cause the cheese to separate and turn grainy. Wait until the pasta is cooked and the heat is reduced to stir in the cheese.

Overcooking the chicken.
Since the chicken is added back in at the end, be careful not to overcook it during the first step. Sear it until just cooked through so it stays juicy.

Neglecting to stir the pasta.
Pasta can easily stick to the bottom of the pot if you forget to stir. Give it a good stir every couple of minutes while it’s cooking.

Burning the garlic.
This happens quickly—30 seconds is enough! Keep an eye on it so you don’t start the dish with a bitter base.

Using the wrong pasta.
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the sauce better than long strands like spaghetti, which can clump together in a one-pot dish.

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What to Serve With One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Steamed Broccoli

Mild and slightly sweet, broccoli is a great veggie pairing.

4. Roasted Asparagus

Roasted with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, vibrant side.

5. Sauteed Spinach

Quick and easy to make, spinach adds a nutritious boost.

6. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a refreshing note to the meal.

7. Grilled Zucchini

Tender and lightly charred, this is a delicious low-carb side.

8. A Glass of White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

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Now that you know how to round out your meal, let’s cover how to store leftovers and what to expect in terms of nutrition.

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Storage Instructions

One of the things I love about this One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is that it stores beautifully—perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers the next day.

To store:
Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3–4 days.

To reheat:
Warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, just stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing:
Because this pasta has a cream-based sauce, freezing isn’t ideal—the sauce may separate once thawed. If you do freeze it, reheat slowly and be prepared to stir in extra liquid to help bring the sauce back together.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of this dish (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 550–600 kcal
• Protein: 30–35 g
• Carbohydrates: 45–50 g
• Fat: 25–30 g
• Fiber: 2–3 g
• Sugar: 2–3 g
• Sodium: 600–700 mg

Note: Exact nutrition will vary based on the type of pasta, cream, and Parmesan used, as well as portion sizes.

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Next, let’s tackle some common questions people have about this recipe—and then wrap up with a conclusion.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken, just skip the searing step and stir the cooked chicken in at the end to warm through.

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2. What type of pasta works best?

Short pastas like penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or cavatappi work beautifully. They hold the sauce well and cook evenly in a one-pot method.

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3. Can I make this without heavy cream?

You can! Substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

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4. How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a subtle heat that complements the creamy sauce.

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5. Is it gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.

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6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Spinach, broccoli, peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms make excellent additions and add color and nutrition.

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7. How can I keep the sauce creamy when reheating?

Reheat gently over low heat and stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

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8. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the dish ahead and store it for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. It’s a great meal-prep option for busy weeks.

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Conclusion

This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta has quickly become one of my favorite go-to dinners. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—all made in one pot for easy prep and cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish delivers every time.

I hope you give it a try! Once you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you—and how you made it your own.

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