One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Easy Dinner Idea

Busy weeknights call for effortless solutions! If you are searching for quick and easy dinner ideas that don’t compromise on flavor or leave you with a mountain of dishes, you’ve found it. This one-pot creamy chicken pasta recipe is your new best friend. It’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for any skill level, and a guaranteed family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

This delicious recipe simplifies your weeknight routine with fantastic results. It truly is one of the best easy dinner ideas out there.

• Quick 30-Minute Preparation: Get dinner on the table fast with minimal active cooking time.
• Minimal Dirty Dishes: Everything cooks in one pot, drastically reducing cleanup after your meal.
• Crowd-P-leasing Creamy Flavor: Rich and savory, this dish satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
• Customizable with Pantry Staples: Easily adapt the recipe using ingredients you already have on hand.
• Nutritious and Balanced Meal: Enjoy a wholesome dish packed with chicken, carbs, and vegetables.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a fantastic one-pot meal. For this one-pot creamy chicken pasta, we focus on fresh, accessible items that bring maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it one of the most delightful easy dinner ideas.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 12 ounces uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Notes & Substitutions

• Pasta Type Alternatives: Feel free to use other short pasta shapes like farfalle, campanelle, or even broken spaghetti. Ensure it’s not a quick-cook pasta.
• Chicken Swaps: Substitute chicken with cooked sausage, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Vegetable Variations: Add broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or frozen peas during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Cream Options: Use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free twist. The flavor profile will change slightly.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Experiment with smoked paprika, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.

Equipment

You won’t need much for this straightforward recipe, which makes it even more appealing as an easy dinner idea.

• One large pot or Dutch oven (at least 5-6 quart capacity)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Stirring spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious one-pot creamy chicken pasta. This method guarantees a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal fuss, truly a standout among easy dinner ideas.

1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
2. Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook it through entirely at this stage. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the same pot, reducing heat to medium if needed. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Liquids, Pasta, and Seasonings: Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the uncooked pasta, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
5. Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer.
6. Stir Frequently: Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking. Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
7. Stir in Spinach and Tomatoes: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. The residual heat will wilt the spinach and gently warm the tomatoes.
8. Add Cheese and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, then serve your delicious one-pot meal immediately.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieve perfect results every time with these helpful hints for your easy dinner idea.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning and even cooking. Overcrowding steams the chicken instead of searing.
• Adjust Liquid if Pasta is Too Dry: If the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash more chicken broth or water.
• Prevent Sticky Pasta Issues: Stir the pasta frequently, especially during the first few minutes of simmering, to keep strands from clumping together.
• How to Achieve Perfect Al Dente: Check the pasta regularly towards the end of the cooking time. It should be firm to the bite, not mushy.
• Boosting Flavor with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley at the end adds a vibrant burst of flavor and color.

Serving, Storage & Variations

This versatile one-pot creamy chicken pasta makes for truly excellent easy dinner ideas. Serve it up just how you like it!

Serving

Serve your creamy chicken pasta immediately for the best texture and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or a slice of crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce. For optional garnishes, consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a generous shower of fresh chopped chives or basil.

Storage & Reheating

Properly cool any leftovers quickly and transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to help restore the sauce’s creaminess. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through.

Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add a can of drained cannellini beans or chickpeas, or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Spice it Up: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning for a delightful heat.
• Cheesy Variations: Incorporate other cheeses like mozzarella or a touch of cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
• Add Different Proteins or Veggies: Experiment with pre-cooked smoked sausage, turkey, or even more robust vegetables like roasted butternut squash.

Nutrition Information

This one-pot creamy chicken pasta offers a balanced meal, providing essential nutrients. Each serving delivers a good source of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates for energy from the pasta, and vitamins from the spinach and tomatoes. It’s easily customizable to fit various dietary needs.

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQ

Got questions about this fantastic dish? Here are some common inquiries about preparing this type of easy dinner idea.

• Can I use different types of pasta? Absolutely! Most short to medium-sized pasta shapes work well, like penne, rotini, or even linguine broken in half. Avoid very delicate pasta types that might overcook quickly.
• How to prevent pasta from clumping? Stirring frequently, especially during the initial simmering stage, is key. Ensure there’s enough liquid to keep the pasta moving and separated.
• Can this be made ahead? While best served fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead. Cooked pasta will absorb more sauce over time, so you might need to add liquid when reheating.
• Is it freezer-friendly? We don’t recommend freezing this dish. The dairy-based sauce can separate and the pasta texture can become mushy upon thawing and reheating.
• What if the sauce is too thick/thin? If too thick, stir in a splash of broth or milk. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little cold water).

Conclusion

This one-pot creamy chicken pasta is a true winner for anyone seeking delicious and easy dinner ideas. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce all in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. Say goodbye to complicated weeknight meals and hello to more family time around the table. Give this recipe a try tonight and discover your new go-to meal!

For optimal food safety, the USDA recommends that cooked chicken should be consumed within 3-4 days when refrigerated.

One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Easy Dinner Idea

Enjoy a comforting and fuss-free meal with this one-pot creamy chicken pasta, featuring tender chicken, pasta, and vibrant vegetables in a rich, savory sauce. It's an ideal solution for a quick and satisfying dinner.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 720

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 8 oz pasta e.g., penne, rotini
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup peas fresh or frozen
• 1 cup carrots diced

Seasoning & Aromatics

• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 0.5 medium onion diced
• 0.5 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Stirring spoon

Method

 

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant.
2. Add chicken broth, uncooked pasta, shredded chicken, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
3. Stir in heavy cream, peas, and diced carrots. Continue to simmer for a few more minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately, garnished if desired.

Notes

For best results, do not overcook the pasta. Adjust the amount of broth or cream to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

Taya Bennett

Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com