One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Pasta is a dish that warms my heart. I remember the first time I made it; I was in a hurry but wanted something delicious for dinner. As I gathered my ingredients, I felt excited about creating something special. The best part about One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Pasta is that everything cooks together, making it easy and tasty.
A Fun Cooking Experience
Cooking One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Pasta was a fun adventure. I started by cutting the chicken into small pieces and browning it in a big pot. The smell of the chicken sizzling made my kitchen feel cozy. Then, I added garlic, onion, and colorful veggies. They brightened up the dish and filled my home with wonderful aromas.
The Magic of Cheese
As I mixed in the pasta, I knew the real magic was about to happen. Once the pasta was cooked, I stirred in a generous amount of cheese. Watching it melt made me smile. The creamy sauce wrapped around the pasta and chicken, creating a comforting hug of flavor. One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Pasta was turning out better than I had hoped.
Finally, I served the One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Pasta to my family. Their happy faces made all the effort worth it. We gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. Each bite was filled with cheesy goodness and love. I realized that this dish was not just a meal; it was a way to bring everyone together.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Pasta
- For added flavor, marinate the diced chicken in olive oil and Italian seasoning for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This simple step helps to infuse the chicken with herbs and spices.
- To ensure juicy chicken, cook it just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
- Feel free to use different short-cut pastas like penne, ziti, or even gluten-free options to suit your dietary needs.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and add texture. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a delicious mix.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or gouda for unique flavors. Adding a little cream cheese can make the dish even creamier.
- If you enjoy some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a spicy twist.
- This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Pasta
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes675
kcal30
minutesGet ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender chicken, rich marinara, and gooey mozzarella for a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Inspired by the flair of celebrity chefs, it’s simplicity meets gourmet in every bite. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor – a must-try for anyone craving comfort food without the fuss. Elevate your dinner game and impress your family with this delectable, hearty pasta dish that’s both easy and utterly delicious. Dive into this culinary delight tonight!
Ingredients
- Proteins
2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced into small chunks
- Vegetables
2/3 medium yellow onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
- Seasonings
2/3 tsp Italian herb blend
1/3 tsp garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pasta
11 oz rigatoni or your preferred short-cut pasta
- Sauces and Liquids
16 oz marinara sauce of your favorite
1/3 cup water to top off the marinara jar
- Cheeses
2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves
- Alternative Ingredients
Chicken Breasts: Substitute with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Rigatoni Pasta: Use penne, ziti, or fusilli instead.
Marinara Sauce: Replace with store-bought or homemade tomato sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: Use provolone or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be used instead.
Italian Seasoning: Mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme as an alternative.
Yellow Onion: Red onion or shallots can be substituted.
Garlic Powder: Fresh garlic or onion powder can replace it
Fresh Parsley or Basil: Cilantro or oregano can be used for garnish.
Water: Replace with chicken broth or vegetable broth for added flavor.
Directions
- Cooking the Chicken: Heat a drizzle of olive oil, Add the diced chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked through, then transfer to a plate.
- Sautéing Vegetables: In the same pot, add the finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Combining Sauce and Pasta: Pour in the marinara sauce and add 1/3 cup of water to the pot. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a strong simmer.
- Adding Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add the rigatoni pasta. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your desired level of tenderness.
- Incorporating Cheeses: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella. Sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the dish. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
- Final Touches and Serving: Optionally, sprinkle extra Italian seasoning for added flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving to enhance both the taste and presentation.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- dutch oven
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 675kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 45g
- Vitamin A: 15IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 300mg
- Iron: 4mg
FAQ- One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Pasta
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen diced chicken, but make sure to thaw it first. Cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook it fresh for optimal taste and texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
You can replace marinara with other tomato-based sauces, like tomato basil or a homemade tomato sauce. Creamy sauces like Alfredo can also work for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This one-pot meal is perfect for meal prepping. Simply divide the cooked pasta into individual portions and store them in airtight containers for quick meals throughout the week.
