One Pot Creamy Garlic: Amazing Weeknight Magic

Save this recipe on:

One Pot Creamy Garlic has been my go-to for those nights when I’m craving something truly decadent but also want to minimize the cleanup. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of garlic and simmering cream filled my kitchen, and my family practically ran to the table. It’s amazing how you can achieve such rich, comforting flavors, like in this One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken, all in a single pan. This recipe is pure magic for busy weeknights, delivering a satisfying meal that feels like a special occasion. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Garlic

• Incredible flavor explosion with every bite
• Seriously quick prep time, perfect for busy weeknights
• A surprisingly healthy option for a creamy dish
• Budget-friendly ingredients that deliver big taste
• A guaranteed family-pleaser that everyone will devour
• The ultimate comfort food experience
• Enjoy delicious One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta without the mess
• This One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta is a weeknight dinner game-changer

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making a fantastic One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken dish. I love how easy it is to find everything for this recipe!

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – patted dry and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz penne pasta – uncooked, this is key for absorbing all that delicious sauce
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – don’t be shy with the garlic, it’s the star!
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – freshly grated melts best and gives the creamiest sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream – for that luxurious, rich texture
• 2 tablespoons butter – divided, to sear the chicken and sauté the garlic
• 3 cups chicken broth – the liquid base that cooks the pasta
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for depth of flavor
• Salt, to taste – to enhance all the flavors
• Black pepper, to taste – freshly ground is always best
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a little kick
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional) – for a fresh, bright finish

How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic

Get ready to create a truly magical meal with this simple guide. This Creamy Garlic Pasta One Pot is designed for ease, so don’t worry if you’re new to one-pot cooking!

1. Step 1: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to rest.
2. Step 2: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the same pot. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it’s wonderfully fragrant, which should only take about 30–60 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn, or it can turn bitter.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any delicious browned bits left from searing the chicken. This is called deglazing, and it adds so much flavor! Bring this liquid mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Step 4: Add the uncooked penne pasta directly to the simmering liquid. Stir everything well to ensure the pasta is submerged and doesn’t stick together. Let it cook uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is perfectly al dente. This is where the magic of Creamy Garlic Pasta One Pot really happens!
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Step 6: Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the sliced chicken to the pot with the creamy pasta. Stir gently to combine everything and allow the chicken to warm through in the sauce for a minute or two.
7. Step 7: If you like a little heat, stir in the optional red pepper flakes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this amazing One Pot Creamy Garlic dish immediately and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

Pro Tips for the Best One Pot Creamy Garlic

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely fantastic. Follow these tips for the ultimate creamy garlic experience!

• Always use freshly grated parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly, and you want that velvety sauce.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when searing the chicken. If you have too much chicken in the pan at once, it will steam instead of sear, and you won’t get that beautiful golden crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at multiple stages. The pasta absorbs a lot of salt, so tasting the sauce before adding it and then again after the pasta is cooked is crucial for perfect flavor.

What’s the secret to perfect One Pot Creamy Garlic?

The secret is building flavor layers. Searing the chicken first creates a fond on the bottom of the pan, which deglazing releases into the sauce. This simple step makes an enormous difference in the depth of flavor for your Easy One Pot Creamy Garlic dish. For more on building flavor, check out these tips on building flavor.

Can I make One Pot Creamy Garlic ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components ahead. Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine with the cooked pasta just before serving. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy if stored together. Learn more about storing and reheating pasta properly.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pot Creamy Garlic?

Avoid overcooking the pasta; it continues to cook in the sauce. Also, don’t use low-fat milk or cream, as they won’t create the same rich, creamy texture. Lastly, resist the urge to stir the pasta constantly while it’s cooking; let it simmer undisturbed for a few minutes.

Best Ways to Serve One Pot Creamy Garlic

This rich and creamy pasta dish is a meal in itself, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out your dinner. For a complete One Pot Creamy Garlic Dinner experience, consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully. Another great option is some crusty garlic bread – perfect for soaking up any extra creamy, garlicky sauce left in the bowl. This dish is so satisfying, it truly shines on its own!

Nutrition Facts for One Pot Creamy Garlic

This hearty One Pot Creamy Garlic dish packs a punch of flavor and comfort. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving, keeping in mind that these are estimates:

• Calories: 620
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more information on understanding nutrition labels, you can visit the FDA’s guide.

How to Store and Reheat Simple One Pot Creamy Garlic

I love that this dish is just as delicious leftover as it is fresh. Once your One Pot Creamy Garlic has cooled completely, transfer it into airtight containers. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to freeze portions for later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes having a quick and comforting meal incredibly easy!

When you’re ready to reheat, the best method for this One Pot Creamy Garlic is gently on the stovetop. Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. Stir frequently until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating and prevent the sauce from separating. Enjoy your delicious, reheated One Pot Creamy Garlic!

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Creamy Garlic

Can I use a different type of pasta for One Pot Creamy Garlic?

Absolutely! While penne is fantastic for this One Pot Creamy Garlic, you can use other short pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle, or rigatoni. Just make sure they cook in a similar amount of time, usually around 10-12 minutes, and adjust the liquid if needed.

How do I make this One Pot Creamy Garlic recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version of this One Pot Creamy Garlic, you can swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer. Replace the parmesan cheese with a dairy-free parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy the dish with dietary modifications. You can find more vegan parmesan recipes online.

Is it possible to make this a Quick One Pot Creamy Garlic with chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken thighs are a wonderful alternative! They tend to stay more moist and tender than breasts. Since they are often smaller and fattier, you might sear them for a minute or two less per side. This swap keeps the recipe flavorful and makes it even more forgiving, perfect for a Quick One Pot Creamy Garlic.

What can I add to One Pot Creamy Garlic for extra vegetables?

I love adding extra veggies to this One Pot Creamy Garlic! Spinach is fantastic; just stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking until it wilts. Peas, broccoli florets, or even some chopped bell peppers can be added along with the pasta to cook through. It’s a simple way to boost the nutrition and texture.

Variations of One Pot Creamy Garlic You Can Try

This versatile One Pot Creamy Garlic recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! I love experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs to keep things exciting.

• Healthy One Pot Creamy Garlic: For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and a lower-fat milk. You can also add a generous handful of spinach or kale right at the end to boost the vegetable content.
• Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper when you sauté the garlic. It adds a wonderful warmth to the creamy sauce.
• Veggie Lover’s Dream: Load up this One Pot Creamy Garlic with your favorite vegetables! Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the garlic, or stir in frozen peas and corn during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Lemon Herb Twist: For a brighter flavor profile, stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and some chopped fresh basil or chives at the very end. This adds a wonderful freshness that cuts through the richness.

Print