How do you keep chicken pasta from getting mushy?

The key is cooking the pasta just until al dente and not over-simmering once the cream and cheese are added. Also, stir occasionally while simmering in broth so it cooks evenly. Using firm pasta like penne helps too, especially in dishes like this or my One Pan Chicken Bacon Gnocchi , where sauce thickness matters.

What to add to chicken pasta to make it taste better?

Flavor boosters like garlic, onion, and herbs make a huge difference. Cooking pasta in chicken broth instead of water gives it a savory base, while parmesan cheese and cream add richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh lemon zest for contrast.

Why is my parmesan sauce not thickening?

If your sauce is runny, it’s likely due to not reducing it enough or using pre-shredded cheese (which doesn’t melt well). Always turn off the heat before adding cheese to prevent clumping. Stir until fully melted and creamy before combining everything.

%One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy, Creamy Dinner in 30 Minutes%

Name: One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or pounded to ½”; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 tbsp butter; ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced; 4–6 garlic cloves, minced; 8 oz dry penne pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Description

This creamy one pot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is loaded with tender chicken, rich garlic sauce, and al dente penne. Ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or pounded to ½”
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter
½ jumbo yellow onion, diced
4–6 garlic cloves, minced
8 oz dry penne pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream
2 tbsp chopped parsley

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Instructions

Mix Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pat chicken dry and rub seasoning on both sides.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 3–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F). Set aside.
Lower heat, add more oil and butter. Sauté onions with salt for 3 minutes, then add garlic for 1 more minute.
Pour in chicken broth to deglaze. Bring to a light boil.

Sear until golden for flavor-packed bites
Add penne. Stir and ensure pasta is mostly submerged. Cover and cook 10 minutes until al dente.

Simmer pasta directly in the flavorful broth
Turn off heat. Stir in parmesan, cream, and parsley until melted and smooth.
Slice cooked chicken and add back to pan. Toss to combine and serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly grated parmesan for best melting.
Always add cream and cheese off heat to prevent curdling.
For a veggie boost, stir in spinach at the end.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: dinner
Method: one pot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 610
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 630mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 105mg