Easy One-Pot Chicken and Pasta Dinner

A quick and delicious one-pot dinner that combines tender chicken with pasta and a creamy sauce for an easy weeknight meal.

This One-Pot Chicken and Pasta Dinner is perfect when you're craving something hearty and comforting without the fuss of multiple dishes. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together on a busy night, yet still impress your family or friends with its rich flavors and simplicity.

Cooking Time: 30 Minutes, Servings: 4

Ingredients needed for this dish are straightforward—chicken breasts, penne pasta, garlic, onion, cream, heavy cream (or milk), salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs like parsley or basil.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and golden brown.
2. Add minced garlic to the pot along with the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
3. While stirring frequently, pour in some water into the pot, just enough to cover the bottom of it slightly. Let this simmer for a couple more minutes while you prepare your other ingredients.
4. Add penne pasta to the pot and toss everything together gently so that all components are evenly distributed. Pour heavy cream over the mixture.

Now comes one of the most crucial steps: reducing the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid but still retains its creaminess from the sauce. This slow cooking method allows flavors to meld beautifully creating a delicious amalgamation of ingredients.

Once done, sprinkle some fresh parsley leaves on top to add color and freshness. You can also serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread if desired; however, it works wonderfully well all by itself too!

Tips for Success

• Ensure your chicken is completely thawed before starting.
• If you prefer less liquid in the final dish, add less water when beginning to simmer. Conversely, more water will yield a looser sauce consistency which some people might enjoy.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed after adding salt and pepper according to taste preferences.

Another tip is to customize this recipe based on what you have in your refrigerator. Leftover vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots can be added during the final stages of preparation for extra nutrition and flavor.

Nutritional Information Per Serving:

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Total Fat: ~30g
• Saturated Fat: ~9g
• Potassium: About 700mg per serving

This recipe provides a good balance of macronutrients and micronutrients essential for maintaining health. With its wholesome ingredients, this dish promises to be both tasty and nutritious.

Conclusion:

The One-Pot Chicken and Pasta Dinner not only satisfies your taste buds but also simplifies the process of meal preparation. Its affordability and versatility make it a favorite among many households looking for convenient yet satisfying meals. Whether you're a busy professional or simply someone who enjoys cooking, this dish offers an excellent option that’s easy to prepare and enjoyable to eat.

Give it a try tonight—your family will love it! This recipe isn't just about good food but also about bringing people together around the table for a delicious shared experience. Happy cooking!