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One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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This one-pot creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a rich, comforting weeknight dinner that comes together in about 35 minutes with minimal cleanup. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, creating a velvety texture without needing heavy cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6–8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 12 oz short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, packed
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thin cutlets. Pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When oil shimmers, add chicken cutlets in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  3. Sauté the garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same pot. Once melted and foamy, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir constantly for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Deglaze the pot: Pour in ½ cup chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let bubble for 30 seconds, then add remaining 2½ cups broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
  5. Cook the pasta: Bring liquid to a gentle boil. Add pasta, remaining Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt. Stir well, reduce heat to a steady simmer, and cover. Cook according to package directions until al dente, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking.
  6. Add the Parmesan: Remove pot from heat. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top and stir vigorously until fully melted and incorporated. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm broth or milk.
  7. Slice and combine: Slice seared chicken into thick strips or bite-sized pieces. Add chicken and any accumulated juices back to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Serve immediately: Spoon into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, grate your own Parmesan cheese—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta cooking water before adding cheese to adjust sauce consistency if needed. Let the dish rest off heat for 2 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, creamy chicken pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, weeknight dinner, easy pasta recipe

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/one-pot-creamy-garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-recipe/