Why Make This Recipe
One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an easy and delicious meal that brings comfort to your dining table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. It only requires simple ingredients and you cook everything in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and pasta is always a crowd-pleaser!
How to Make One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serve the pasta hot right after cooking for the best taste. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This meal pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
How to Store One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Make sure to constantly stir the pasta while cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or use a non-dairy alternative. You can also use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist!
FAQs
Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, but fusilli or penne hold the sauce well.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, milk with cornstarch, or a non-dairy cream alternative if you want a lighter or dairy-free option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just cook the pasta right before serving to ensure it’s fresh and warm.
One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use fresh for best flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.