One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta is one of those comforting meals that instantly fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The first time I made this recipe, I was looking for something hearty, creamy, and easy to prepare without creating a pile of dishes afterward.
As the chicken browned in the skillet and the onions softened, the rich savory scent made it impossible to wait for dinner. Once the cheddar cheese melted into the sauce, it created a velvety coating that clung perfectly to every piece of pasta.
What makes this One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta special is its balance of simplicity and flavor. The tender chicken, creamy cheddar sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a single pan, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners.
Key Ingredients in One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta
After making this One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta recipe several times, I found that each ingredient plays an important role in creating the final flavor and texture.
• ½ onion, diced
• 1½ lbs chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Seasoning of choice (e.g., rotisserie or steakhouse blend)
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 carton (about 4 cups) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 lb pasta• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
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One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta is a creamy, comforting dinner made with tender chicken, pasta, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, onions, and chicken broth. Everything cooks in a single skillet, creating a rich, cheesy sauce and a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
• ½ onion, diced
• 1½ lbs chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Seasoning of choice (e.g., rotisserie or steakhouse blend)
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 carton (about 4 cups) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 lb pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
1. Sauté the onion
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened and slightly translucent. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken
Season the chicken as desired, then coat with cornstarch. Add to the same skillet and cook over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the pasta
Pour chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook on high heat, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Make the sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese and mix until melted, then add the remaining cheese and stir until smooth.
5. Combine everything
Return the chicken and onions to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve
Serve hot and enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
How to Make One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta Step-by-Step
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent. Remove the onion from the skillet and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with your preferred seasoning blend. Coat them lightly with cornstarch, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Pour the chicken broth into the same skillet and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and add one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until melted, then add the remaining cheese and continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken and sautéed onions to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the rich cheddar sauce.
- Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
After enjoying this One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta fresh from the skillet, it quickly became one of my favorite comfort meals.
The creamy cheddar sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta create a satisfying dinner that feels homemade and special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or simply want an easy weeknight meal, this One Pan Chicken Cheddar Pasta recipe delivers delicious results every time.
Looking for inspiration? Visit Elise Chef on Pinterest to explore beautifully curated high-fiber recipes and discover your next healthy habit.