One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta: Easy 30-Minute Family Dinner

This deceptively indulgent one-pot creamy chicken pasta uses homemade chicken broth and pasta starch to create a naturally creamy sauce with just a touch of cream. Loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a complete meal that’s ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup required.

There’s something magical about a pasta dish that looks utterly indulgent but is secretly packed with nutrition. This one-pot creamy chicken pasta achieves that perfect balance – delivering restaurant-quality comfort food that happens to be loaded with lean protein and colorful vegetables. The best part? Everything cooks together in one pan, creating a naturally creamy sauce that’ll have your family convinced you spent hours in the kitchen when you really only needed 30 minutes.

What makes this One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dish so awesome

Contrary to what it will have you believe, this isn’t your typical heavy cream-laden pasta dish. Its awesomeness lies in the cooking technique: as the pasta cooks directly in the seasoned homemade chicken broth, it releases natural starches that create an incredibly creamy base. A small amount of cream and cornstarch added at the end provides that final luxurious texture we all crave, while keeping the dish surprisingly light.

The vegetables aren’t an afterthought here – they’re integrated into every bite, ensuring balanced nutrition and vibrant color. By cooking the chicken first, we build layers of flavor that permeate the entire dish. The result is a complete meal that satisfies both comfort food cravings and nutritional needs.

Key Ingredients

Protein Foundation

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs) – Cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking
• Homemade chicken broth (4 cups) – The secret to deep, rich flavor; good quality store-bought works too

Pasta & Starch

• Penne pasta (3 cups dry) – The tubes hold the creamy sauce perfectly
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Creates silky smoothness without heaviness

Vegetable Medley

• Fresh broccoli florets (3 cups) – Added at the end to maintain vibrant color and crisp-tender texture
• Carrots (2 medium) – Sliced for natural sweetness and beautiful color
• Celery (2 stalks) – Adds aromatic depth and subtle crunch

Flavor Builders

• Yellow onion (1 medium) – The aromatic foundation of any great dish
• Fresh garlic (2 cloves) – Minced for maximum flavor impact
• Dried oregano (1 tsp) – Classic herb that complements chicken perfectly
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup) – Just enough for richness without overwhelming 

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 6 people
Difficulty Level: Easy
Equipment Needed: Large saute pan with lid, medium saucepan

This recipe follows a simple build-as-you-go approach: brown the chicken, sauté the aromatics, add broth and pasta together, then finish with vegetables and cream. The key is timing – each component is added at precisely the right moment to ensure perfect texture and flavor development.

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by bringing your chicken broth to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. This is crucial – hot broth ensures the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t become gummy. Keep it simmering while you work on the other components.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat 1-2 tablespoons of your preferred cooking fat in a large sauté pan with a tight-fitting lid over medium-high heat. Once the pan is properly heated, add the cubed chicken breasts. Season generously with salt and pepper, then cook without moving for 8-10 minutes until golden brown on multiple sides. This browning creates the flavor foundation for your entire dish.

Step 3: Build the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, celery, oregano, and additional salt and pepper to the pan with the chicken. Stir to coat everything with the rendered chicken fat and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. The vegetables should just begin to soften.

If you want your carrots to look just like mine (aren’t they like super cute?) you’ll need to use one of those neat little crinkle cutters. I’m not one to own millions of kitchen gadgets, but this one I truly like. It doesn’t cost much at all, takes up no space and makes veggies so much fun! I might not use it every day, but when I do, it never fails to make me smile. I’m really glad I chose to treat myself to it!

Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta

Pour the hot chicken broth into the pan, followed immediately by the dry pasta. Stir everything together well, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Cover the pan and simmer for approximately 8 minutes, stirring gently every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking. The pasta should be slightly undercooked (just shy of al dente) when you move to the next step – it will finish cooking during the resting period.

Step 6: Add Broccoli and Cream

Stir in the fresh broccoli florets. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the heavy cream until smooth, then pour this mixture into the pan. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly.

Step 7: Final Cooking and Rest

Bring the mixture back to a simmer and cook for exactly 1 minute – this ensures the cornstarch is fully activated and reaches its thickening potential. Remove from heat and let the dish rest, uncovered, for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the pasta to absorb more flavor and the sauce to reach perfect consistency.

Trust me, that little pause is entirely worth it!

Serving Recommendations

This hearty pasta serves 6 people as a complete main course. For the perfect presentation, garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Perfect Pairings:

• Side salad: A simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette adds fresh, crisp contrast
• Crusty bread: Garlic bread or focaccia for sopping up every drop of sauce
• Wine pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio or light Chardonnay complements the creamy chicken beautifully

Leftover Magic: This dish reheats beautifully! Add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating to restore the creamy consistency. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Expert Tips for Success

Temperature Control: Keep your heat at medium to medium-high throughout cooking. Too high and you’ll scorch the bottom; too low and the pasta won’t cook properly.

Pasta Selection: While penne works wonderfully, any short pasta shape will work – rotini, shells, or rigatoni all hold the sauce beautifully. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti or linguine for this one-pot method.

Broth Quality Matters: Use the best chicken broth you can find or make your own. It’s the base of your sauce, so quality here makes a real difference in the final flavor.

Don’t Skip the Rest: That 5-minute resting period isn’t optional – it’s when the magic happens. The pasta absorbs flavor, the sauce thickens, and everything melds together perfectly.

Starch Slurry: Always whisk cornstarch into cold cream or milk before adding to prevent lumping. Never add cornstarch directly to hot liquid — it will immediately seize into one giant, impossible-to-dissolve lump that’ll ruin your silky sauce!

Vegetable Timing: Add delicate vegetables like broccoli last to maintain their bright color and crisp-tender texture. Harder vegetables like carrots can go in earlier.

Recipe Variations and Adaptations

Dietary Modifications:

• Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta; you may need to adjust cooking time
• Lighter Version: Use whole milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount

Vegetable Variations:

• Mediterranean: Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and artichoke hearts
• Garden Fresh: Include zucchini, bell peppers, and fresh basil
• Winter Comfort: Try butternut squash, kale, and sage
• Kid-Friendly: Stick to carrots, corn and peas for pickier eaters

Flavor Boosters:

• Italian Herbs: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning
• Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños
• Cheesy: Stir in cream cheese or additional Parmesan for extra richness
• Wine Addition: Deglaze with white wine before adding broth

Nutritional Benefits

This seemingly indulgent pasta dish is surprisingly nutritious, delivering a well-balanced meal in every serving:

Protein Powerhouse: With 1.5 pounds of chicken breast serving 6 people, each portion provides approximately 35 grams of high-quality, complete protein essential for muscle maintenance and satiety.

Vegetable Victory: Three cups of broccoli and additional carrots and celery mean each serving contains multiple servings of vegetables, providing fiber, vitamins C and K, folate, and antioxidants.

Moderate Calories: At approximately 525 calories per serving, this dish fits comfortably into most daily eating plans while providing substantial satisfaction.

Balanced Macronutrients: The combination of lean protein, complex carbohydrates from pasta, and healthy fats creates a balanced meal that provides steady energy.

Hidden Nutrition: The homemade chicken broth provides additional protein, collagen, and minerals that support joint and bone health.

Portion Control Built-In: The high protein and fiber content naturally promotes satiety, helping prevent overeating.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Pasta is mushy or overcooked
Solution: Always cook pasta just shy of al dente during the covered simmering phase. It continues cooking during the 5-minute rest period.

Problem: Sauce is too thin
Solution: Let it rest longer uncovered, or make a quick slurry with additional cornstarch and cream. Remember, the sauce thickens significantly as it cools.

Problem: Sauce is too thick
Solution: Thin with additional warm chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach desired consistency.

Problem: Chicken is dry or tough
Solution: Don’t overcook the chicken in step 2. It continues cooking throughout the braising process. Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.

Problem: Vegetables are overcooked
Solution: Add delicate vegetables like broccoli only in the final minutes. For firmer vegetables, cut them larger so they maintain some texture.

Problem: Dish tastes bland
Solution: Season in layers – season the chicken, then the vegetables, and taste before serving. Don’t forget the finishing salt and fresh herbs.

Problem: Pasta is sticking to the bottom
Solution: Ensure you’re using enough liquid and stirring gently but regularly during the simmering phase. Reduce heat if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While best served fresh, you can prepare it up to 2 days ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat portions in the microwave or stovetop, adding liquid as needed to restore the creamy texture.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Cream-based pasta dishes don’t freeze perfectly due to texture changes, but it’s possible. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Q: What if I don’t have a lid for my large pan?
A: You can use aluminum foil as a tight cover, or transfer everything to a Dutch oven or large pot with a lid after browning the chicken.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes! Add frozen broccoli in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. No need to thaw first. Frozen mixed vegetables work well too.

Q: Is there a way to make this spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes with the oregano, include diced jalapeños with the vegetables, or finish with a dash of hot sauce.

Q: What pasta shapes work best?
A: Short, sturdy shapes like penne, rotini, shells, or rigatoni work perfectly. Avoid delicate pasta like angel hair or long shapes like spaghetti.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work wonderfully and stay more tender. Use the same amount and cooking method.

The Bottom Line

This one-pot creamy chicken pasta proves that comfort food doesn’t have to compromise on nutrition or require hours in the kitchen. By using smart cooking techniques — like letting the pasta starch naturally thicken the sauce and building layers of flavor — you create a restaurant-quality dish with surprising ease.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance: it satisfies that craving for rich, creamy comfort food while sneaking in plenty of vegetables and lean protein. The one-pot method means minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, hosting a casual dinner party, or simply treating your family to a cozy meal, this pasta delivers every time. The recipe is forgiving enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough to impress, and the variations mean you’ll never get bored.

Trust me – this is the kind of recipe that becomes part of your regular rotation, the one everyone requests and no one needs to know is actually good for them!

Print Recipe Rate this Recipe

4.75 from 27 votes

One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

This deceptively indulgent one-pot creamy chicken pasta uses homemade chicken broth and pasta starch to create a naturally creamy sauce with just a touch of cream. Loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, it's a complete meal that's ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup required.

Servings: 6

Ingredients

US Customary – Metric

• 1-2 tbsp cooking fat of your choice
• 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• Sprinkle of salt and pepper
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt, I use Himalayan salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups dry penne pasta , (or other dry pasta of your choice)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, (or whole milk)
• 1 tbsp corn starch

Optional Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

• Heat the broth: Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan and keep warm.
• Brown the chicken: Heat oil in a large sauté pan with lid over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook 8-10 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
• Add vegetables: Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
• Combine pasta and broth: Add hot chicken broth and dry pasta to the pan. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Cook pasta: Cover and simmer 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is just shy of al dente.
• Add broccoli: Stir in broccoli florets. Whisk cornstarch into heavy cream until smooth, then stir into the pan.
• Finish and rest: Return to a simmer and cook 1 minute. Remove from heat and let rest uncovered for 5 minutes.
• Serve: Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 526kcal, Carbohydrates: 62g, Protein: 36g, Fat: 14g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Cholesterol: 99mg, Sodium: 951mg, Potassium: 986mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 4065IU, Vitamin C: 56.2mg, Calcium: 85mg, Iron: 2.1mg

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

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This recipe was originally posted in April of 2017 but has since been updated for clarity and additional information. The recipe itself has remained unchanged.