If you are craving a dish that’s the perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, look no further. The One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Dinner Recipe is a true kitchen superhero that brings all the comforting flavors together in one pot. This recipe features juicy chicken pieces, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious blend of cheeses that create a rich and satisfying dinner any night of the week. It’s quick, fuss-free, and guaranteed to become your new weeknight favorite for families and busy cooks alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple with everyday ingredients that work together to build incredible flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s the savory spices enhancing the chicken or the trio of cheeses bringing creaminess and depth.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- 1 small onion, diced: Gives sweetness and a subtle crunch when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Classic herb blend that brings a fragrant Mediterranean touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky depth and lovely color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right hint of spice.
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini): Pasta shapes that hold sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Intensifies the chicken flavor and helps cook the pasta.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and a silky texture to the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharp, tangy, melty goodness.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings stretchiness and mild creaminess.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a salty, nutty finish.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Make One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s lightly browned on the outside, sealing in all those juicy flavors.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add diced onion and minced garlic straight into the pot with the chicken. Sauté everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and turn translucent, while the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. This step builds a flavorful base for the entire dish.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquids
Now, pour the uncooked pasta into the pot, along with the chicken broth and milk. Stir everything to combine well. Bringing the mixture to a boil helps the pasta start cooking evenly before we reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the pot and let the pasta simmer gently for about 12 to 15 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Watch as they melt into a smooth, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to every pasta piece and chicken bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling chopped parsley over the top for a burst of fresh green and subtle herb notes. Serve this warm and enjoy the incredibly satisfying experience of the One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Dinner Recipe.
How to Serve One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
To really level up the presentation and taste, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some extra Parmesan can brighten the dish. You could also try a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick with your cheesy comfort food.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but if you want to add some veggie love, a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli are perfect companions. Garlic bread is another classic choice that will soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this cheesy chicken pasta in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe or layer it in clear glass dishes to show off the gooey cheese and colorful chicken pieces. Adding a lemon wedge on the side can add a fresh, zesty contrast that brightens each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as tasty the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later weeks, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that fresh herbs like parsley are best added fresh after reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth as needed to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne and rotini work wonderfully here, but feel free to swap in fusilli, shells, or even macaroni if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can skip the chicken and add hearty veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or more broccoli instead. Using vegetable broth will keep everything flavorful and satisfying.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
No worries! You can substitute it with regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder. The smoky undertone adds a nice touch but isn’t essential.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
For sure! Pepper jack can add a spicy twist, while gouda or Monterey Jack will melt beautifully and change the flavor profile in fun ways. Just keep the total cheese quantity the same for that creamy texture.
How do I make the sauce less thick or more creamy?
If the sauce feels too thick, simply stir in extra milk or broth a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess. This recipe is quite flexible and forgiving.
Final Thoughts
Trying the One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Dinner Recipe means welcoming a guaranteed favorite into your regular dinner lineup. It’s simple, comforting, and oh-so-delicious — perfect for busy nights when you want max flavor with minimum fuss. I can’t wait for you to make it and enjoy every cheesy, tender bite!
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One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Dinner Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dinner recipe that combines tender chicken pieces, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pot. This easy stovetop meal is packed with flavor from Italian seasoning and smoked paprika, making it a perfect family-friendly dinner that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Liquids
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the chicken. Sauté for another 2–3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their aroma.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer and Cook Pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and forms a creamy sauce coating the pasta and chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness and serve the cheesy chicken pasta hot, directly from the pot.
Notes
- For extra vegetables, add spinach or steamed broccoli at the end of cooking.
- To add some heat, stir in red pepper flakes or substitute pepper jack cheese for the mozzarella.
- Use penne or rotini pasta for best results as they hold sauce well.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
