One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne

Did you know that the average American spends nearly 60 minutes a day preparing meals? What if you could drastically cut that time without sacrificing flavor? Our One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne promises to do just that! It’s a delectable, hearty meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Forget complicated recipes and endless pots; this one-pot wonder is about to become your new go-to dish. This recipe seamlessly integrates juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and creamy parmesan with perfectly cooked penne, all in a single pot!

Ingredients List

Here's what you'll need to create this culinary masterpiece of One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne!

Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes. Think of this as your protein powerhouse, infusing the entire dish with savory goodness. (Substitution Tip: Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.)
Penne Pasta: 1 lb. The classic choice, but rotini or fusilli would work well too, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor!
Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. Don't skimp on the garlic! It's the star of the show. If you're feeling bold, add an extra clove for a more intense flavor.
Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the dish, laying the foundation for the other flavors to build upon.
Chicken Broth: 6 cups, low-sodium preferred. This is your cooking liquid, infusing the pasta and chicken with rich, savory flavor.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup. For that luxuriously creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible. (Substitution Tip: Use half-and-half for a lighter option, but be aware the sauce will be less rich.)
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated. The salty, nutty finish that ties everything together. Freshly grated is key for the best flavor and melting.
Dried Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons. A blend of herbs that adds a touch of Italian flair.
Salt: To taste. Enhances all the other flavors. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust as needed.
Black Pepper: To taste. Adds a touch of spice and depth.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. For sautéing the chicken and onion.
Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped, for garnish. Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Timing

This recipe is all about speed and simplicity.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes (chopping vegetables and dicing chicken).
Cooking Time: 30 minutes.
Total Time: 40 minutes. Which is about 33% less time than ordering takeout, and significantly healthier!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to create your delicious One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne!

Step 1: Sauté Chicken and Onion

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and chopped onion. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Actionable Tip: Don't overcrowd the pot; this ensures the chicken browns properly instead of steaming.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning

Add the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Actionable Tip: Keep stirring frequently so the garlic doesn't brown excessively – burnt garlic is bitter!

Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the penne pasta and stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged. Actionable Tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds extra flavor to the broth!

Step 4: Simmer and Cook Pasta

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Actionable Tip: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your stove and the type of pasta you are using. Check the pasta for doneness a few minutes early and add more broth if needed.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Actionable Tip: For an extra cheesy sauce, reserve a little bit of the parmesan for sprinkling over the dish when serving it.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Actionable Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit more broth or heavy cream to reach the desired consistency.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings):

Calories: 550
Protein: 40g (Data Insight: This accounts for 80% of the recommended daily intake for the average adult.)
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to make this One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne a little healthier? Here are a few ideas:

Use whole wheat penne: Adds fiber and nutrients, making it a more wholesome dish.
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream: Cuts down on the fat content while still providing creaminess.
Add vegetables: Stir in chopped spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals.
Use less Parmesan cheese: Parmesan is high in sodium and fat, so reduce the amount used or opt for a lower-fat variety .
Swap canned Chicken broth with Homemade: Great way to reduce amount of sodium intake.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to elevate the dining experience:

Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, garlicky flavors.
Personalized touch: Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the dish just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for when making One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne:

Burning the garlic: Garlic burns easily, so keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.
Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta will be mushy. Check for doneness a few minutes early. Use an al dente pasta. According to a study in the Journal of Food Science, al dente pasta maintains its texture better and is more pleasing to the palate.
Not stirring frequently enough: The pasta can stick to the bottom of the pot if you don't stir it occasionally.
Using too much salt: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Remember that Parmesan cheese is already salty.
Adding the cream and parmesan while the pot is still hot: This can cause the cheese to curdle. Remove the pot from the heat before adding these ingredients.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers: Store any leftover "One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne" in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Freezing: While it is not recommended, if needed, freeze cooked pasta in an airtight freezer safe container for upto 2 months. Be aware that the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing.
Prepping Ahead: You can dice the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With easy instructions, minimal cleanup, and customizable ingredients, it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again. And don't forget to share the love on social media!

Ready to give it a try? Or better what are you waiting for! Bake it, snap it, brag it, rate it!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, most short pasta shapes will work well in this recipe. Penne is a classic choice, but rotini, fusilli, or even macaroni would be good substitutes. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may cook at different rates.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
While you can use milk, the sauce won't be as rich and creamy. Half-and-half is a better substitute for heavy cream if you're looking to cut down on fat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I use frozen Chicken?
Yes! Just ensure that you thaw the chicken completely prior to cooking.
How can I prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot?
Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking and make sure there is enough liquid in the pot. If the pasta starts to stick, add a little more broth or water. Making sure to use a non-stick or cast iron pot will help with avoiding sticking even more.