One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal you can make all in one pot, and this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly that kind of comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, a luscious creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the kind of dish I find myself craving on busy weeknights or anytime I want to impress with minimal fuss.

I love how this recipe combines simplicity and flavor without sacrificing that homemade feel. You’ll enjoy the richness from the parmesan and cream while appreciating how the whole meal comes together quickly and with very little cleanup—a true win-win in any kitchen.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients in this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe work beautifully together to create creamy, savory comfort food with a great texture. Here’s why each is important, plus some tips for shopping and prepping.

• Chicken tenderloins or cutlets: These cook quickly and stay tender, perfect for a fast one-pot meal.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings classic Italian flavor without any extra effort or measuring.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty umami that makes the sauce velvety and delicious.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce just enough to coat the pasta without being heavy.
• Olive oil (not extra virgin): Ideal for cooking at higher heat without burning, keeping the chicken juicy.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps build a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Yellow onion: Brings sweetness and depth once sautéed.
• Garlic: Essential to lifting flavors with its fragrant aroma.
• Chicken stock: Gives the pasta a savory cooking liquid to absorb, infusing every bite.
• Half and half (or single cream): Creates the creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.
• Dried pasta: Choose any shape you like; it cooks right in the sauce for an easy, all-in-one dinner.

Make It Your Way

I like to customize this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe depending on what’s in my fridge or what mood I’m in. Don’t hesitate to add your own spin—whether that means extra veggies, swapping in different herbs, or even trying a bit of spice.

• Variation: Adding sautéed mushrooms and a handful of fresh spinach at the end is one of my favorite twists that adds great texture and nutrition.
• Dietary swap: You can easily swap the chicken for turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
• Seasonal touches: During summer, tossing in some cherry tomatoes right before serving adds a lovely burst of freshness.
• Spice it up: If you like a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes sprinkled on top livens things up beautifully.

Step-by-Step: How I Make One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season and Coat the Chicken

Start by mixing half the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, shredded parmesan, and flour in a bowl. This combo forms a flavorful coating for the chicken that helps it get a nice crust. Gently toss your chicken tenderloins in this mixture so each piece is evenly coated—this step is key for tasty, golden chicken without extra breading.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat butter and oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven on medium-high. When hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 3-4 minutes a side depending on thickness. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside, keeping it warm. This step is where the chicken seals in moisture and flavor, so be patient.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pan, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 2 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about one minute. The goal here is gentle cooking that releases the onion’s sweetness and garlic’s aroma without browning or burning.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Liquids

Pour in half a cup of chicken stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Then add the remaining stock and half and half. Give it a good stir to blend everything before moving on.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add your dried pasta to the pot and stir well to coat it in the cooking liquid. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 11 to 13 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste the pasta near the end and cook a little longer if needed, depending on the shape you chose.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Serve

Turn off the heat and stir in the remaining Italian seasoning and shredded parmesan. The sauce might be thin now, but don’t worry—it thickens nicely as it cools. Give it a taste and adjust salt and pepper. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and either mix it through or arrange it on top before serving.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a little brightness against the creamy sauce. A grind of black pepper or even some crushed red pepper flakes adds a touch more depth. Sometimes I add extra parmesan on top, because, well, you can never have too much parmesan!

Side Dishes

This pasta stands beautifully on its own but pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. A simple garlic bread or a warm slice of crusty Italian bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like plating this pasta in shallow bowls topped with a drizzle of good olive oil, some toasted pine nuts, and a few cherry tomatoes roasted with herbs. It elevates the dish without making things complicated in the kitchen.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and it keeps well for up to three days. The pasta thickens as it sits, so before reheating, I add a splash of half and half or milk to loosen it back up for that creamy texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a couple of times with good results. Freeze in a sealed container and thaw overnight in the fridge. It’s best to reheat gently on the stove to avoid breaking the sauce emulsion.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring in a little cream or broth to refresh the sauce. Microwaving works too, but stir every 30 seconds to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe holds a special place in my weeknight routine because it nails the balance between comfort and convenience. I genuinely think you’ll enjoy how quickly it comes together without skimping on flavor or texture. Give it a try next time you want a cozy, satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple, fresh, and downright delicious.

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