If you’re craving a satisfying, comforting, and crowd-pleasing meal that doesn’t leave your kitchen in chaos, this One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is your answer. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish brings together tender chunks of chicken, rich Parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one pot. It’s an easy weeknight staple that tastes like a restaurant-quality meal with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot = less mess: Fewer dishes, more flavor.

• Creamy and comforting: The luxurious sauce clings to every bite.

• Family-friendly: Mild enough for kids, with optional heat for adults.

• Customizable: Use different pasta shapes, veggies, or even add mushrooms or spinach.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 12 oz penne pasta

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides—about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

2. Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Create the Creamy Sauce

Add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

4. Add Pasta and Cook

Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens.

5. Finish the Dish

Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce—this will take 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve

Top with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy perfection!

Quick Tips for Success

• Use short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni that cook evenly and hold the creamy sauce well.

• Grate your Parmesan fresh if possible—it melts more smoothly into the sauce.

• Want it lighter? Swap half of the heavy cream for milk or use half-and-half.

• Make it a complete meal by adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes during the pasta cooking step.

What to Serve With It

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or crusty sourdough

• Roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

• Not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce, which can separate upon thawing.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate quick comfort food—easy enough for a busy weeknight, but rich and satisfying enough to serve to guests. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need a sink full of dishes to make a meal full of flavor.

Craving more one-pot wonders? Let me know if you’d like to try a creamy shrimp version or add seasonal veggies for a spring twist.