Skillet Chicken Pasta: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Dinner

When it comes to quick, satisfying, and comforting meals, nothing beats a hearty Skillet Chicken Pasta. This dish is a perfect combination of tender chicken, flavorful pasta, and a creamy or tomato-based sauce—all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Whether you're preparing a family meal or a special dinner for two, this recipe is simple yet impressive.

In this article, we'll cover the step-by-step process to make this delicious dish, along with tips, variations, and frequently asked questions to help you create the perfect one-pan chicken pasta every time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✔️ One-Pan Convenience – Minimal cleanup since everything cooks in a single skillet.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal.
✔️ Flavorful & Satisfying – Juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.
✔️ Customizable – Use different proteins, pasta shapes, and sauces to make it your own.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Chicken & Pasta

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce for a richer base)
• 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup spinach or kale (for added greens)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for extra flavor)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (for a heartier dish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic & Deglaze the Pan

1. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and lift up any flavorful bits.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Skillet

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce), heavy cream, and uncooked pasta.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
3. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook for 12-15 minutes, or until al dente. Add more broth if needed.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Chicken

1. Once the pasta is tender, stir in the Parmesan cheese and return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Mix well and let it cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and cover for 2-3 minutes until melted.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

1. Make It Spicy

• Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Stir in spicy sausage along with the chicken.

2. Creamy Alfredo Version

• Replace the diced tomatoes with more heavy cream and add extra Parmesan for a white sauce variation.

3. Veggie-Packed Version

• Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

4. Light & Healthy Version

• Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a lighter alternative.
• Use whole wheat pasta for more fiber.

Tips for the Best Skillet Chicken Pasta

✅ Cut Chicken Evenly – Ensures even cooking.
✅ Use Fresh Garlic – Adds better depth of flavor.
✅ Stir Occasionally – Prevents pasta from sticking.
✅ Add Cheese at the End – Ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.
✅ Adjust Liquid if Needed – If pasta absorbs too much, add extra broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! You can use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply add it at the end of the cooking process.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best since it holds the sauce well.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free cheese.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but the creamy texture may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

6. What can I serve with skillet chicken pasta?

Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

7. How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and make sure all ingredients, including broth and cheese, are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Skillet Chicken Pasta is a lifesaver on busy nights when you want something hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you prefer a creamy Alfredo-style version or a rich tomato-based sauce, this recipe is versatile, customizable, and always delicious.

So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade chicken pasta—all in one pan! 🍝✨

Did You Try This Recipe?

Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking! 😊