Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Italian Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, hearty pasta, and savory Italian spices all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. With a rich tomato-based sauce, fresh garlic, and melted cheese, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast or thighsolive oilgarliconionItalian seasoningcrushed red pepper flakes (optional)salt and pepperchicken brothcanned diced tomatoestomato pastepenne or rotini pastaheavy cream (optional for creaminess)grated parmesan cheeseshredded mozzarella cheesefresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned on all sides.

Stir in tomato paste, crushed red pepper flakes, and diced tomatoes. Mix well.

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Add the pasta, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook uncovered for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Optional: Stir in heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Sprinkle in parmesan cheese and mozzarella. Stir until melted and creamy.

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use ground chicken or turkey instead of diced chicken.
Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
Swap in gluten-free pasta if needed.
Use sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor depth.
Try with a splash of white wine for added richness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just add it in after the onions are softened to heat through with the sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, omit the cheese and cream or use dairy-free alternatives.

What type of pasta works best?
Short pastas like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the sauce well and cook evenly.

Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can omit them for a milder flavor.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, leave out the chicken and use vegetable broth and extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pot and adjust cooking time slightly as needed.

Conclusion

One-Pot Italian Chicken Pasta is the ultimate fuss-free comfort food that brings bold Italian flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a go-to meal that delivers taste, convenience, and a whole lot of heart in every bite.