One Pot Italian Chicken and Pasta: Easy Weeknight Dinner

Craving Italian comfort without the fuss?

Imagine tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, all swimming in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce – and all made in just one pot! This One Pot Italian Chicken and Pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights (or any night, really). It’s delicious, incredibly easy, and totally impressive. Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to meal!

Why You’ll Love It

• The entire meal is cooked in one pot, minimizing cleanup – yay for fewer dishes!
• The flavors are incredible – the chicken absorbs all the delicious tomato, garlic, and herb goodness.
• It’s surprisingly quick; ready in about 45 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners.
• The recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out veggies or pasta to your liking.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser, loved by adults and kids alike. This is a family dinner winner!

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What really sets this recipe apart is the method: everything cooks together. This allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors from the chicken, herbs, and sauce as it cooks, creating a beautifully integrated and flavorful dish. This isn’t just pasta and chicken tossed together; it’s a symphony of flavors all cooked harmoniously in one pot.

Ingredient List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes – These provide the base for the rich and savory sauce.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta and the browned chicken back to the pot. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil.
7. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to customize your One Pot Italian Chicken and Pasta with these additions:

• Add some veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Cheese Lover: Mix in a dollop of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the chicken at the beginning. You just need to brown it. It will finish cooking as it simmers with the pasta.
• Make sure to use a pot large enough to fit all the ingredients comfortably. This prevents overflow and ensures even cooking.
• Stir the pasta a few times during the cooking process to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, herbs) as needed after cooking.
• For the best results, use a good quality chicken broth to add flavor to the entire dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use different pasta? Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as different pasta types may require longer or shorter cooking times. Elbow macaroni, rotini, or small shells work well.
• Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Chicken breast will work, but it tends to be less moist and tender than thighs. If you opt for breast, try cutting them into larger pieces, and reduce cooking time slightly.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated. However, the pasta may absorb more of the liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
• How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I freeze this recipe? While you can freeze it, the pasta can become a bit mushy upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, make sure to use an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Variations and Customization Options

Here are some ways to personalize your One Pot Italian Chicken and Pasta:

• Creamy version: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a creamier sauce.
• Mushroom Magic: Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms along with the onions and garlic for an earthy flavor.
• Italian Sausage: Replace some of the chicken with 1/2 pound of Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Italian Chicken and Pasta is a complete meal on its own. Serve it hot with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side salad for a balanced meal. It’s also great with a slice of crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce!

Conclusion

This One Pot Italian Chicken and Pasta is a winner for flavor, ease, and minimal cleanup. It’s a weeknight savior that brings comfort and deliciousness to your table without requiring hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, get your pot ready, and prepare to enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and easy! Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it with us. Subscribe to our newsletter for more simple and delicious recipes!