Description
This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces are cooked with sautéed onions and garlic, then combined with pasta, chicken broth, and milk to create a creamy base. Finished with melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese, this dish offers rich flavor with minimal cleanup, making it an ideal family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat and Season Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on the outside and mostly cooked through.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the chicken and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir in the uncooked pasta to evenly distribute it in the pot.
- Simmer the Pasta: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top (if using) and serve the cheesy chicken pasta warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version; add it at the end when pasta is nearly cooked.
- Swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack to vary the flavor.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach at the end of cooking for extra vegetables and nutrition.
