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Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy 30-Minute Dinner

creamy one-pot garlic parmesan chicken pasta - featured image

This creamy one-pot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a quick and easy 30-minute dinner that comes together in a single pot. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety garlic-parmesan sauce make it a crowd-pleasing weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 8 ounces dried penne pasta
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When shimmering, add chicken breasts and cook without moving for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 4-5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same pot. When melted, add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let simmer, then stir in heavy cream and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add dry penne pasta to the pot, stirring to submerge. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
  6. Remove pot from heat. Sprinkle in grated parmesan cheese and stir vigorously until melted and sauce is smooth.
  7. Shred or dice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add back to the pot and stir gently. Let sit for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, grate your own parmesan cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Stir the pasta regularly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, one-pot pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, easy dinner, 30-minute meal, weeknight dinner