If you are craving a meal that combines comfort, simplicity, and a burst of flavor all in one, then this One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. Imagine tender, juicy chicken mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce that’s bursting with hints of smoky paprika and a subtle kick from tomatoes with green chilies. This dish is a sensational blend of textures and tastes with minimal cleanup, making it a winner for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike. Trust me, once you try this one pot wonder, it’s going to become your go-to recipe when you want something hearty, cheesy, and downright satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about simplicity meeting flavor with this recipe. The ingredients for this One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to build layers of taste, color, and creamy texture. Each one plays a special part, whether it’s the aromatic garlic, the melty cheeses, or the savory broth that ties everything together.
- Olive oil: A drizzle to start cooking the chicken perfectly and add a subtle fruity base.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender, bite-sized pieces that soak up the seasoning beautifully.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the chicken.
- Garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and complexity when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic aroma that wakes up the whole dish.
- Uncooked short pasta (penne or rotini): Perfect shapes that hold onto the creamy sauce.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the pasta and chicken.
- Milk: Richness that helps create a luscious, creamy sauce.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds a slight tang and a lively kick to balance the cheese.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a delightful smoky depth to the overall flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, the star of the cheesy goodness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch and milky smoothness to the dish.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A bright, herbal garnish that adds a hint of freshness and color.
How to Make One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is nicely browned on the outside and cooked through. This step gives the chicken a lovely texture and flavor foundation, so don’t rush it! Once done, set the chicken aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This gentle sauté releases those sweet and savory flavors that will elevate your pasta sauce.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquids
Next, add your uncooked pasta to the pan followed by the chicken broth, milk, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and smoked paprika. Give everything a good stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. This step ensures the pasta soaks up all those delicious flavors while starting to cook gently in the flavorful liquid.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the pasta to cook perfectly, absorbing the broth and milk, creating that creamy base that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Cheese
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until everything is melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy. At this point, your pasta should be tender and the sauce creamy, cheesy, and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely burst of color and a touch of fresh, herbal brightness to balance the richness of the cheese. You can also add a few twists of fresh cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit more spice.
Side Dishes
This cheesy chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread are also fantastic companions that complete the meal without overshadowing the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual oven-safe bowls and broil for a minute or two to get a golden cheesy crust on top. Alternatively, offer extra shredded cheese and fresh herbs on the side for guests to customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a sturdy freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the pasta might soften slightly after freezing and thawing, but it will still taste delicious.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy sauce and prevent it from drying out. Microwaving works fine too—just heat in short bursts and stir in between to keep it evenly warm and cheesy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best because they hold the sauce nicely. Feel free to experiment with your favorite type, but avoid very thin pastas that might get mushy during cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more substance and flavor.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely. If you enjoy a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes when you add the tomatoes, or swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese for a spicier, creamier sauce.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut! Just add shredded rotisserie chicken at the end when stirring in the cheese to save time while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
No worries at all. You can substitute with regular paprika or a small pinch of chili powder to maintain warmth and depth, although the smoky flavor will be milder.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly a delicious, no-fuss meal that brings everyone to the table with its creamy, cheesy embrace and hearty, comforting taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving some seriously good comfort food, this recipe will deliver every time. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that combines tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and tender pasta all cooked together in a single skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, it features a flavorful blend of spices, fresh garlic, and a hint of smoky paprika, delivering a comforting meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein & Dairy
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk
Produce
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Pantry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups uncooked short pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Using the same pan, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Add pasta and liquids: Stir in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, milk, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Finish with cheese and chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if desired, and serve the cheesy chicken pasta warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts to save time.
- For added nutrition, mix in vegetables such as spinach, peas, or broccoli.
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or substitute pepper jack cheese for a spicier flavor.
