Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta in One Pot for Easy Dinners

This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken, rich Parmesan, and al dente penne.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and helps cook the chicken; using olive oil is a lighter option.
1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Provides protein; thighs or plant-based protein are great substitutes.
to taste Salt Enhances flavor.
to taste Black Pepper Enhances flavor.
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Brings a complex blend of herbs.
4 cloves Garlic Imparts aromatic flavor.

For Cooking Liquid

2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Acts as the cooking liquid and adds depth; for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth.
1 cup Water Balances the concentration of the broth for perfect flavor.

For the Pasta

12 ounces Uncooked Penne Forms the base of the dish; any short pasta variety will work well.

For Creaminess

1 cup Whole Milk Provides a creamy texture; substitute with cream for richness or non-dairy milk for lighter options.
1 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds a savory finish.

For Garnish

to taste Italian Parsley A splash of color that elevates the dish.

Equipment

Skillet

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until browned. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning and 4 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of water. Stir in 12 ounces of uncooked penne pasta and bring to a high simmer. Stir frequently for about 15 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
Once the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of whole milk, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, adding 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring well to combine for about 1-2 minutes.
Serve in bowls and garnish with freshly chopped Italian parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure you brown the chicken well and maintain the pasta's al dente texture for the best flavor and consistency.

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