why make this recipe
One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a perfect meal for busy nights. It combines chicken, pasta, and cheese in one pot, making cleanup easy. The creamy sauce and melted cheese make it comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, which means more time to enjoy your meal!
how to make One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned chicken until it is browned on all sides.
- Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Stir to combine everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until they are melted and blended into the dish.
- Taste and season with additional salt, pepper, and garlic powder if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
how to serve One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Serve One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta warm, straight from the pot. It pairs well with a simple green salad and some crusty bread. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs or extra cheese on top before serving. Enjoy it as a filling lunch or a cozy dinner!
how to store One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
tips to make One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference for creaminess.
variation
You can make this dish spicier by adding crushed red pepper flakes or using pepper jack cheese for a kick. For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can use other pasta types like fusilli or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to the pasta before microwaving or warming it on the stove to keep it creamy. Stir well while reheating.