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Creamy one-pot chicken pasta served in a bowl with fresh herbs

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta

A comforting dish that combines juicy chicken thighs and hearty pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 Tbsp avocado oil Adds richness and is perfect for sautéing.
  • 3 medium boneless, skinless chicken thighs Tender and flavorful.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Builds flavor base for the dish.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Brings aromatic touch.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Adds warm, savory flavor.
  • 16 oz dry rigatoni pasta Holds onto the sauce beautifully.
  • 24 oz jar pasta sauce Rich tomato sauce for acidity and sweetness.
  • 1 jar water to fill the empty pasta sauce jar Ensures pasta cooks perfectly.
  • 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, divided Gives the dish its cheesy appeal.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Adds nutty flavor.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings.
  • for garnish dry parsley Adds color and freshness.

Method
 

Sauté the Chicken
  1. In a large saucepan, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken thighs and cook for about 5 minutes until no longer pink in the center.
  3. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Cook the Onions
  1. In the same saucepan, add the diced onion along with the Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
  2. Sauté for around 2 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine the Ingredients
  1. Pour in the pasta sauce and refill the empty sauce jar with water, adding that to the saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.
Add Chicken and Pasta
  1. Stir in the cooked chicken and the dry rigatoni.
  2. Cover and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes or until pasta reaches desired tenderness.
Add Cheese
  1. Once the pasta is cooked, mix in 1/4 cup of the mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese.
  2. Stir until they melt into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
Finishing Touches
  1. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of dry parsley.
  2. Serve hot for a deliciously cheesy meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in Italian seasoning and garlic powder for a few hours before cooking. Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.