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One Pot Chicken Pasta

Michelle
Creamy one pot chicken pasta made in 30 minutes with tender chicken, pasta cooked in broth, and a rich parmesan cream sauce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dishes
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or Dutch oven (with lid)
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
  • Microplane or grater (for parmesan)
  • Ladle (optional, for serving)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups baby spinach optional
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional

Instructions
 

  • Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet (or Dutch oven) over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, salt, and pepper. Cook 4–6 minutes until lightly browned (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet).
  • Sauté the aromatics: Add diced onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add pasta + liquids: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom. Add the pasta and stir so it’s mostly submerged.
  • Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a steady simmer. Cover and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring every couple minutes so the pasta doesn’t stick, until pasta is tender.
  • Finish the sauce: Lower heat. Stir in parmesan until melted and creamy. If using spinach, stir it in and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes.
  • Serve: Taste and adjust salt/pepper if needed. Sprinkle with parsley and extra parmesan and serve hot.

Notes

  • Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and help the sauce turn creamy.
  • If the sauce gets thick, add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
  • Freshly grated parmesan melts best for a smooth sauce.
Keyword One Pot Chicken Pasta