One-Pot Chicken Penne Pasta: Easy and Flavorful
Introduction
When you want a hearty dinner with minimal cleanup but maximum flavor, One-Pot Chicken Penne Pasta is the answer. This dish brings juicy chicken, tender pasta, and vibrant veggies together in a simple, all-in-one pot method. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something deliciously fuss-free, this meal is sure to become a family staple.
Expect perfectly cooked pasta bathed in a savory, creamy sauce—all achieved without boiling water separately or juggling multiple pans.
What Makes This One-Pot Chicken Penne Pasta Stand Out?
Unlike traditional pasta recipes, this one-pot approach allows the penne to soak up all the flavors from the sautéed chicken, aromatic garlic, and simmering sauce. As everything cooks together, the starch from the pasta thickens the sauce naturally, creating a luxuriously creamy texture. The convenience of using just one pot not only saves you time but lets every ingredient shine in harmony.
The result? A deeply satisfying, flavor-packed dish that feels like it took hours, but actually comes together in about 30 minutes.
Prepping Ingredients for Success
Getting everything ready before you start cooking streamlines the process and guarantees perfect results.
Begin by dicing onions, bell peppers, and mincing garlic. For the quickest and most uniform prep, consider using a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper—it will effortlessly handle all your veggie chopping needs. Cut skinless, boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Choose your favorite penne pasta, a can of crushed tomatoes, and a splash of cream to build a rich sauce. Have some fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) ready for garnish.
Simple Steps for Cooking One-Pot Chicken Penne Pasta
First, heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot. A nonstick pan like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch can help prevent sticking and make stirring a breeze.
Brown the chicken, then sauté vegetables until softened. Stir in garlic, penne pasta, and crushed tomatoes, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer—cover and cook until the pasta reaches al dente perfection and the chicken is juicy.
Finish the dish with a splash of cream and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, stirring until combined.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One-Pot Chicken Penne Pasta tastes even better as leftovers, making it great for meal prep lunches or busy nights. Divide servings into airtight containers like Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers to keep your pasta fresh throughout the week.
If you love packing a hearty lunch to go, the Bentgo Salad Container can easily double as a lunchbox for your pasta, keeping everything contained and ready to eat.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe makes about 4 generous servings. Each serving offers balanced protein, carbs, and veggies, totaling roughly 430–480 calories (depending on cream and cheese amounts). For a fiber boost, toss in a handful of baby spinach or chopped broccoli with the pasta before simmering.
One-Pot Chicken Penne Pasta: Recap
All the flavor of a cozy Italian-inspired meal, ready in one pot with practically no fuss. This easy and flavorful One-Pot Chicken Penne Pasta guarantees delicious results and easy cleanup—the ideal combination for anyone wanting a satisfying homemade meal without the hassle.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven (a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet works wonderfully). Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove to a plate and set aside.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper to the pan. Sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Return the chicken to the pan. Add penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 14–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and chicken is cooked through. If needed, add a splash more broth or water.
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley or basil. Store any leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy lunches.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes