Easy and Delicious Chicken Pasta Bake One Pot Meal for Busy Weeknights

There’s something deeply comforting about a meal that comes together in just one pot — a kind of magic I learned from Mama Lu, who believed that good food didn’t have to be complicated to be unforgettable. This chicken pasta bake one pot recipe is exactly that: a warm, hearty dish that speaks the language of home with every bite. Growing up in that white farmhouse tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, I saw how food brought us close, turning the ordinary into moments full of love. This dish carries that same spirit — it’s simple, soul-satisfying, and perfect for those days when you want a home-cooked meal without fussing over a million pans.

Why You’ll Love This chicken pasta bake one pot

When I first made this chicken pasta bake one pot, I was reminded of those Sunday dinners at Mama Lu’s where everything simmered low and slow, filling the house with the smell of comfort. But unlike those long afternoons, this recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You get tender chicken, pasta cooked right in the sauce, and a golden, bubbly top — all in one pan. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like it took hours, even if it only takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.

What I love most is how flexible this dish is. You can use fresh herbs from your garden, swap in whatever cheese you have on hand, or toss in some frozen veggies for an extra boost. It’s a forgiving recipe that invites creativity but still delivers that steady, familiar taste that feels like home. Plus, cleanup is a breeze — no multiple pots and pans to worry about, which makes it all the sweeter.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This chicken pasta bake one pot

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 8 ounces uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Substitution tips: If you want a lighter version, swap heavy cream for whole milk or even Greek yogurt stirred in at the end. For the cheese, sharp cheddar or provolone can work beautifully if mozzarella isn’t your favorite. And if you prefer, swap chicken for turkey or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 550mg (varies with broth and cheese)

Growing up, Mama Lu never fussed over nutrition labels — she believed in food that healed and nourished the soul. While this chicken pasta bake one pot isn’t a diet food, it’s packed with protein and balanced with carbs for energy, making it a wholesome, satisfying meal that keeps you going, just like those hearty farm dinners did.

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Steps to Create Your chicken pasta bake one pot

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t crowd the pan — cook in batches if needed to get a nice sear.
2. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, letting the spices bloom for about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to make sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it among the pasta.
5. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let everything cook together for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the broth and cook right in the sauce.
6. Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F. Bake uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
8. Take the skillet out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

One thing Mama Lu taught me was patience — letting flavors meld and textures come together slowly, even when time’s short. This recipe honors that by layering simple steps that build deep, satisfying flavor. And if you don’t have an oven-safe pan, just transfer everything to a baking dish for the last step. Learn more: Ground Beef Easy Recipes for Quick and Delicious Meals

Tips for Making the Best chicken pasta bake one pot

I remember the first time I tried to make a pasta bake in one pot, I ended up with mushy noodles and a soupier sauce. Here are a few lessons Mama Lu would have shared, based on years of cooking by feel and instinct:

• Don’t skip the sear: Browning the chicken adds a layer of flavor that transforms the dish.
• Watch your pasta: Use a sturdy shape like penne or rigatoni that holds up well to baking and soaking in sauce.
• Keep an eye on liquid: The broth should just cover the pasta. Too much and you’ll lose that creamy texture; too little and the pasta won’t cook evenly.
• Use fresh herbs when possible: They brighten the dish and bring that fresh garden flavor Mama Lu prized.
• Let it rest: Allow the bake to sit for a few minutes before serving so the sauce thickens and flavors settle.

Every time I make this, I think back to those porch-side talks with Mama Lu — how she’d say,

“Cooking’s about feeling, not measuring.”

And while I’ve added precise quantities here for you, don’t be afraid to trust your senses and adjust as you go.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This chicken pasta bake one pot is hearty all on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides that balance its richness. Around Mama Lu’s table, a crisp veggie or something a little tangy always made its way alongside the main dish.

• A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess
• Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach tossed in garlic
• Crusty homemade bread or a warm biscuit for soaking up every last bit of sauce
• A glass of chilled white wine or a cold glass of sweet tea, depending on your mood

When we gathered for Sunday dinners back home, the table was always full of stories as much as food. Sharing this meal with loved ones invites that same feeling — a simple, genuine connection over good, honest food.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Life can get busy, and sometimes you want to make this chicken pasta bake one pot ahead of time. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much.
• You can also microwave individual portions, covering loosely to keep moisture in.
• For longer storage, freeze the bake (before adding fresh herbs) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

One thing I’ve learned from Mama Lu is that good food is meant to be savored — and sometimes savored again. Leftovers like this taste just as comforting the second time around.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for chicken pasta bake one pot?

The main ingredients for chicken pasta bake one pot include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make chicken pasta bake one pot?

The total time to make chicken pasta bake one pot includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make chicken pasta bake one pot ahead of time?

Yes, chicken pasta bake one pot can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with chicken pasta bake one pot?

chicken pasta bake one pot pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is chicken pasta bake one pot suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, chicken pasta bake one pot may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

This chicken pasta bake one pot isn’t just a recipe — it’s a little piece of home, a reminder of that farmhouse kitchen where food was more than fuel. It was love, tradition, and a way to bring people close. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself after a long day, this dish offers warmth, simplicity, and a touch of that mountain magic I carry with me from the Blue Ridge to Portland.

As Mama Lu would say, “Cook with your heart, and it’ll always taste right.” So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and let this one-pot wonder bring a little of that farmhouse comfort to your table tonight.