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
Scale
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.
