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One-Pot Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta

A spoonful of cheesy chicken pasta is lifted, showing long, dramatic cheese pulls over a plate of creamy pasta.

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Make this easy, comforting one-pot cheesy chicken pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. It features tender chicken and pasta in a rich, creamy cheese sauce with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 12 ounces dried pasta (like penne or rotini)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the same pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the dried pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is nearly tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Do not let it boil once the cheese is added.
  7. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately.

Notes

  • For a baked version, transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until bubbly.
  • You can substitute the cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
  • Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save 10 minutes of prep time.

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