Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter (divided); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

I’ve always had a soft spot for pasta, especially when it’s creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor. This One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is one of those dishes I return to again and again. It’s comforting, rich without being overwhelming, and brings together tender seared chicken with a velvety cheese sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. The best part? It all comes together in just one pot—minimal cleanup, maximum satisfaction.

I created this recipe on a busy weeknight when I craved something indulgent but didn’t have the patience for a pile of dirty dishes. The flavors are deep and layered, thanks to the seared chicken, fresh garlic, and sharp Parmesan. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is totally accessible for any home cook. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

All made in one pot – less mess, less stress.

Ultra creamy sauce without needing heavy ingredients.
Juicy, golden seared chicken that adds serious flavor.
Family-friendly and perfect for picky eaters.

Weeknight ready – quick to make, even quicker to disappear from the plate!

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

For this recipe, I stick with penne pasta because its tube shape holds onto that luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce like a dream. But the beauty of this dish is how versatile it can be. You can absolutely use other short pastas like rigatoni, ziti, or rotini. Even fettuccine or linguine would do well if that’s what you have on hand—just adjust the cooking time slightly and keep an eye on the liquid absorption. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold the sauce without turning mushy.

If you’re going gluten-free, don’t worry—there are excellent gluten-free penne options out there that cook up beautifully in one-pot dishes like this. The most important thing is to make sure the pasta cooks evenly with enough liquid to soak up that creamy, cheesy goodness.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is flexible, so you can tweak it to match what’s in your pantry or your dietary preferences.

Chicken: Swap for shrimp, turkey, or keep it vegetarian with mushrooms or zucchini.
Parmesan Cheese: Use Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a meltier touch.

Cream: No heavy cream? Use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but you can substitute with garlic paste or roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
Pasta: Any sturdy pasta shape will work. Gluten-free or whole wheat penne are also great choices.

Herbs: Don’t have parsley? Try basil, thyme, or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

This dish loves to adapt. Just keep the creaminess and the seasoning in balance, and you’re good to go.

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

Chicken Breast: Lean and tender, it sears beautifully and soaks up all the garlicky, cheesy goodness. Slice it thin so it cooks quickly and evenly.

Penne Pasta: Its tube shape traps the creamy sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Heavy Cream: The base of that luscious sauce—thick, silky, and perfect for carrying flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential here. It infuses the entire dish with warm, aromatic depth.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty sharpness and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken and toast the garlic—it adds a lovely depth and richness.
Butter: A bit of butter mixed with olive oil adds silkiness and helps balance the flavor.

Chicken Broth: Helps cook the pasta and boosts flavor more than water ever could.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple, essential seasoning to elevate every ingredient.
Chopped Fresh Parsley: For freshness and color, it finishes the dish with brightness.

Crushed Red Pepper (Optional): Adds a touch of heat if you like a little kick.

Every ingredient here plays a role in building the creamy, savory character of this one-pot wonder.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs if desired. Heat olive oil and a little butter in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear on both sides until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and set it aside to rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan (don’t wipe it out—you want all those flavorful browned bits!), lower the heat to medium and add a bit more butter if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let it burn—just let it bloom.

Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all those tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir to combine into a creamy base.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce

Add your uncooked penne directly into the sauce. Stir well and let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens—this usually takes 12–15 minutes. If the sauce gets too thick before the pasta is done, add a splash more broth or water.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is just right, lower the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan. This will melt into the sauce and create that perfect creamy, cheesy coating.

Step 6: Slice and Return the Chicken

Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips and return them to the pan, nestling them over the creamy pasta. Let them warm through for a couple of minutes.

Step 7: Finish and Garnish

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, an optional dash of crushed red pepper for heat, and maybe a few more shavings of Parmesan. Serve it hot and creamy, straight from the pot!

How Long to Cook the One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare:

Searing the Chicken: ~8–10 minutes
Making the Sauce & Cooking Pasta: ~12–15 minutes

Final Assembly & Garnish: ~5 minutes

You’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying—perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent without the hassle.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.

Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep a close eye during the simmer—it should be just al dente, with a little bite. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy in the sauce.
Let the chicken rest: After searing, give the chicken a few minutes to rest before slicing. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Stir the pasta occasionally: It prevents sticking and ensures even cooking as it absorbs the creamy sauce.

Adjust liquid if needed: If the sauce reduces too quickly, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth or cream to keep it silky.
Balance the seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or Parmesan as needed.

These little steps make a big difference in achieving that rich, creamy texture and bold flavor every time.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta in the Sauce: Since the pasta cooks directly in the creamy broth, it’s easy to let it go too long. Keep it al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid even off the heat.
Using Pre-Grated Cheese: This can cause clumping or a grainy texture. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for that smooth, melty finish.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic only needs about 30 seconds in the pan. Anything more and it turns bitter, which can throw off the flavor of the entire dish.

Not Deglazing the Pan Properly: All those golden bits from the chicken? That’s flavor gold. Scrape them up well with broth to infuse the sauce.
Adding Chicken Too Early: Don’t toss the chicken back in while the pasta is still cooking—it’ll overcook and dry out. Wait until the end to gently warm it through.
Too Much Heat After Adding Cream: Keep the heat low when adding cream and cheese. High heat can cause separation or curdling.

What to Serve With One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne?

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.

Garlic Bread

Buttery, crispy garlic bread is a natural sidekick to this creamy pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Tossed with olive oil and sea salt, it adds color, crunch, and a bit of char.

Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic

A light, garlicky veggie that mirrors the flavors in the pasta without overpowering it.

Warm Crusty Baguette

Great for mopping up every last drop of sauce on your plate.

Sparkling Lemon Water or Iced Tea

A refreshing sip to cleanse the palate between bites.

Caprese Skewers

Mini skewers with mozzarella, tomato, and basil offer a cool, fresh bite to balance the warmth of the dish.

A Glass of Chardonnay

Creamy pasta and white wine? A classic, cozy pairing—just be sure to pour yourself a glass.

Storage Instructions

This creamy pasta keeps surprisingly well if stored properly:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of milk or broth when reheating will bring it right back to life.
Freezer: Not ideal for freezing due to the cream and cheese base, which can separate. If you do freeze it, expect some texture changes. Use within 1 month, and thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of liquid (cream or broth) to loosen the sauce if needed.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Calories: ~620 kcal
Protein: 36g

Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 590mg
Cholesterol: 115mg

Serving Size: ~1 ½ cups

These values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients used, like the brand of cheese or pasta. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or reduced-fat cream and leaner cuts of chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish because they cook quickly and stay tender when sliced. You can also use boneless thighs if you prefer juicier, richer cuts—they’ll just need a little extra cooking time.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. If using milk, whole milk is best, and you might want to add a bit more cheese or a teaspoon of flour mixed in to help thicken the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and measure out your ingredients ahead of time. However, since the pasta cooks in the sauce, it’s best made fresh. Leftovers are still tasty, but the texture is optimal right after cooking.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or stir in a dash of cayenne pepper. A drizzle of chili oil at the end is also a great touch if you like bold heat.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Definitely. Just skip the searing step and add the shredded or sliced cooked chicken in the final 5 minutes of simmering so it warms through without drying out.

Will the sauce thicken more as it cools?

Yes, the sauce continues to thicken slightly as it cools and the pasta absorbs more liquid. If it gets too thick, just stir in a little warm broth or milk when reheating.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free penne and checking that your chicken broth and cheese are also gluten-free.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?

Let it simmer uncovered a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also stir in a bit of grated Parmesan or a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry to help it come together.

Conclusion

One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is one of those meals that feels like a hug in a bowl—rich, flavorful, and comforting, yet surprisingly simple to make. It’s a dinner that delivers big satisfaction with minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself on a cozy night in, this dish never disappoints. With easy customizations and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s bound to become one of your go-to favorites.