One-Pan Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight
Imagine a cozy evening where the aroma of garlic, creamy cheese, and tender chicken fills your kitchen. This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious, cheesy sauce—all prepared in a single skillet for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special family dinner, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this indulgent, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one-pan wonder is a game-changer for home cooks. Not only does it save time on dishes, but it also infuses every bite with rich, garlicky goodness and a velvety cheese sauce that clings to the pasta. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a gooey, savory texture, while the chicken adds hearty protein to keep you satisfied. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—swap in your favorite pasta shape or toss in some veggies for a nutritious twist. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients. Fresh, quality components make all the difference in achieving that irresistible flavor.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized chunks (thighs work great, too, for extra juiciness)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, for searing and flavor
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced (adjust to taste for garlic lovers)
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth, to cook the pasta and build the sauce
- 1 ¼ cups heavy cream, for that luxurious, creamy texture
- 1 ¾ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, for melty goodness
- 1 ¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for sharp, nutty flavor
- 10 ounces rigatoni pasta (or try penne, fusilli, or farfalle for variety)
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning, for a herbaceous kick
- ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika, for subtle warmth and color
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, to enhance the garlicky vibe
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, for a vibrant garnish
- Optional add-ins: 1 cup sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to whip up this delectable dish. Each stage is designed to maximize flavor and ensure a seamless cooking experience.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. In a small bowl, season the chicken with ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ¾ teaspoon garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly, ensuring every piece is well-seasoned.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet (at least 12 inches) over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. The residual bits of chicken in the pan will add extra flavor to the sauce.
- Build the Sauce Base: Pour in 2 ½ cups of chicken broth and 1 ¼ cups of heavy cream, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits (fond) are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Pasta: Add 10 ounces of rigatoni (or your preferred pasta) to the skillet, stirring to submerge the pasta in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the pasta cook for 12–15 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta should be al dente, and most of the liquid should be absorbed, creating a creamy base.
- Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in 1 ¾ cups shredded mozzarella and 1 ¼ cups grated Parmesan, a handful at a time, until the cheeses melt into a smooth, velvety sauce. The mozzarella adds stretchy richness, while the Parmesan brings a bold, savory depth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine and Season: Return the cooked chicken (and any accumulated juices) to the skillet, gently tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper as needed. If using optional add-ins like sautéed mushrooms or spinach, fold them in now for extra color and flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately, straight from the skillet, with extra Parmesan on the side for cheese lovers. Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Prep and Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 650 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 generous portions
Tips for Success
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, keep these pointers in mind:
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s smoothness. Grate your mozzarella and Parmesan from a block for the creamiest results.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the chicken adds depth to the dish. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice caramelized crust.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much as it sits, stir in a little warm broth or cream before serving to loosen it up.
- Customize Your Veggies: Boost the dish’s nutrition by adding vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic or steam and fold them in at the end.
- Make It Spicy: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or sprinkle some over the finished dish.
Variations to Try
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Check cooking times, as they may vary.
- Lightened-Up Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Note that the texture may be slightly less rich.
- Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a decadent seafood pasta. Cook the seafood just until opaque to avoid overcooking.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano in place of or alongside parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Cheesy Overload: Add a layer of extra mozzarella on top and broil for 1–2 minutes for a bubbly, golden crust.
Storing and Reheating
Got leftovers? This dish stores beautifully for future meals. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storage: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
- Freezing: While possible, freezing creamy pasta dishes can affect the sauce’s texture. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why This Recipe Shines
This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The simplicity of cooking everything in one skillet, combined with the indulgent flavors of garlic, cheese, and tender chicken, makes it a standout dish. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty yet effortless, or for impressing guests with minimal fuss. The recipe’s flexibility allows you to make it your own, whether you’re adding veggies, tweaking the spices, or experimenting with different proteins.
So, grab your skillet and get ready to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Your family will be asking for seconds, and your kitchen will smell like an Italian trattoria. Buon appetito!
