There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, creamy pasta dish that comes together in just one pot. This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner is the ultimate weeknight meal—comforting, rich, and full of flavor with minimal cleanup. It’s loaded with juicy chicken pieces, al dente pasta, and a luscious cream sauce that clings to every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or prepping leftovers for the week, this dish delivers every time. It’s hearty enough to be the star of the table and easy enough for even beginner home cooks to master. A few fresh vegetables and a dusting of Parmesan finish things off for that irresistible touch of freshness and sharpness.

What Makes a One-Pot Pasta So Convenient?

The beauty of a one-pot recipe lies in its simplicity: fewer dishes, shorter cooking time, and all the ingredients cooking together to build flavor. The starch from the pasta helps thicken the sauce naturally, while the chicken and veggies infuse the base with savory depth. It’s comfort food streamlined.

Ingredients for the One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner

Chicken Breasts: The lean protein base that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor well.

Pasta (like penne or rotini): Holds up well to the creamy sauce and keeps its texture.

Heavy Cream: The core of the rich, velvety sauce.

Garlic: Adds a punch of savory aroma and flavor.

Cherry Tomatoes: Provide acidity and a burst of sweetness to balance the richness.

Spinach or Kale: Adds nutrients and color without overpowering the flavor.

Parmesan Cheese: Brings in a salty, nutty edge that deepens the flavor profile.

Chicken Broth: Helps cook the pasta and build the base of the sauce.

Olive Oil & Butter: A combo for searing the chicken and starting the flavor base.

Salt, Pepper & Italian Seasoning: Essential for seasoning each layer of the dish.

How To Make the One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add them to the pot. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and let them blister slightly, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add your pasta of choice and stir well. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with chopped spinach or kale. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving and Storing This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner

This pasta is best served hot and fresh, straight from the pot. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a crack of black pepper bring out the final touch of decadence. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of cream or broth and warm it gently over medium heat to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or shells work best. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

It can be made ahead and stored, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so reheat with a bit of liquid.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk are good alternatives, though the flavor and richness will change slightly.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers make great additions.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the garlic.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pasta and confirm that your broth and seasonings are gluten-free as well.

One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Dinner

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy, one-pot pasta dinner that combines juicy chicken, tender noodles, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce all in one comforting dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Instructions

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, cook garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and let them blister slightly.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the pot. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in pasta. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
Add chicken back in along with spinach or kale. Stir in Parmesan until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If this creamy chicken pasta made your night, you’ll want to try these next-level dinner dishes that bring comforting flavors with easy prep:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine — Bright citrus meets rich cheese in this flavor-packed plate.

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta — A ricotta twist on your favorite Alfredo.

• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce — Hearty, cheesy, and loaded with flavor.

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli — Packed with veggies and comforting flavor.

• One Skillet Sweet & Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta — For those who crave a little heat and a lot of sauce.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can whip it up whenever you need a comforting, fuss-free meal.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies? Try a different pasta? Maybe a sprinkle of chili flakes?

I love hearing how you put your own spin on these dishes. Got questions? Drop them below so we can all help each other cook better!