Are you craving a quick, comforting weeknight dinner that doesn’t involve a mountain of dirty dishes? Then discover this incredibly simple one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta recipe. It delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a perfect solution for busy evenings. Prepare to enjoy a delicious meal with hardly any cleanup, ideal for any home cook!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken Pasta
You will adore this incredibly simple and satisfying one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta for many fantastic reasons. It truly simplifies mealtime.
- Effortless: You only need four main ingredients for this incredible dish. This streamlined approach makes grocery shopping and prep a breeze.
- Speedy: This whole meal comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights. From stove to table, dinner is ready in a flash.
- Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in a single pot, drastically cutting down on dishwashing. Say goodbye to piles of pots and pans after dinner.
- Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to suit your family’s unique tastes and dietary needs. Add different seasonings or cheeses to make it your own.
- Comfort Food: This hearty, cheesy, and satisfying pasta dish is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s guaranteed to warm you up and please everyone at the table.
One Pot Easy 4 Ingredient Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Nonstick spray
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Leftover, frozen or pre-cooked chicken
- 1 Jar Marinara sauce
- 4 cups any type cooked pasta drained
- 1-1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9×9 baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and marinara sauce, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly.
- Serve the casserole hot and enjoy!
Notes
Ingredients
Making this delicious one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta requires just a few pantry staples. Keep these on hand for a truly simple meal solution.
- Uncooked short pasta: 12-16 ounces (e.g., penne, rotini, cavatappi)
- Pre-cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced
- Jarred marinara sauce: 24-28 ounces (approximately 3 cups)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1-1.5 cups
Notes & Substitutions
You have plenty of flexibility with these ingredients to fit what you have or prefer. Feel free to experiment with different brands or types.
- Pasta: Feel free to use any similar short pasta you have on hand. Ziti, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni work wonderfully in this one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta recipe.
- Chicken: A store-bought rotisserie chicken is perfect here. You can also use canned chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or even pre-cooked chicken from the freezer.
- Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred marinara or pasta sauce. A robust tomato sauce adds great depth of flavor to this easy dish.
- Cheese: If you prefer, substitute the mozzarella with shredded cheddar, Colby, or an Italian blend. Any good melting cheese will work beautifully.
- Pantry Staples (not counted in 4): You will also need about 3-4 cups of water or chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, black pepper to taste, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for the best flavor.
Equipment
Gathering your equipment beforehand makes the cooking process even smoother. This recipe keeps things incredibly simple.
- Large pot or Dutch oven with lid: Essential for cooking everything in one go.
- Stirring spoon: For combining ingredients and preventing sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Instructions for Your One Pot Easy 4 Ingredient Chicken Pasta
Get ready to whip up this amazing one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta in no time! Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients. Start by measuring out all your ingredients. Shred or dice your pre-cooked chicken if it is not already in small pieces. Open your jar of marinara sauce and have your cheese ready. This makes the cooking process incredibly smooth and fast.
Step 2: Start the Sauce. Place your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add about one tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm for a minute. Pour in the entire jar of marinara sauce and let it warm through, stirring occasionally for about 2-3 minutes. This helps to release its delicious aromas.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients. Carefully add the uncooked short pasta directly into the pot with the warm marinara sauce. Next, pour in about 3 cups of water or chicken broth. Add your pre-cooked chicken to the pot. Stir everything gently to ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if desired.
Step 4: Simmer. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling vigorously, immediately reduce the heat to low. This prevents the pasta from cooking too quickly on the outside while remaining hard on the inside.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly al dente. Cooking times can vary slightly based on your specific pasta shape, so keep an eye on it.
Step 6: Stir Frequently. It is crucial to lift the lid and stir the pasta mixture every 2-3 minutes during the simmering process. This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking. You will notice the sauce thickening as the pasta absorbs the liquid.
Step 7: Add the Cheese. Once the pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed, turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it fully melts and becomes wonderfully gooey and stringy. This adds incredible richness and flavor to your one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy. Ladle generous portions of your delicious one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of Parmesan cheese, if you like. Serve it hot and enjoy this incredibly satisfying meal immediately with your family!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
These expert tips will help you perfect your one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta and avoid common pitfalls. Master this dish with confidence.
- Prevent Sticking: Stir regularly and thoroughly during the simmering process, especially if using a thicker sauce. This ensures your pasta cooks evenly and prevents it from clumping or burning at the bottom of the pot.
- Liquid Balance: If the pasta appears too dry during cooking, add a splash more broth or water, about ¼ cup at a time. If it’s too wet when the pasta is almost done, remove the lid for the last few minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Flavor Boosters: For extra depth, sauté a minced garlic clove and half a chopped onion in olive oil before adding the marinara sauce. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano also elevates the taste significantly.
- Al Dente Perfection: Always test a piece of pasta a minute or two before the estimated cooking time. It should be tender but still have a slight bite to it, ensuring it’s not mushy.
- Creaminess: For an even richer, creamier texture, stir in about ¼ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese along with the mozzarella at the very end.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This versatile one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta pairs well with many sides and adapts easily to different flavors. Get creative with your meals!
- Serve with: Complement this hearty meal with a side of warm garlic bread for dipping into the rich sauce. A crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast.
- Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes along with the marinara sauce. This introduces a pleasant warmth to the dish.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking; it will wilt perfectly. Diced bell peppers or finely chopped zucchini can also be added with the uncooked pasta for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Other Proteins: While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily adapt it. Brown 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage in the pot before adding the sauce and other ingredients. Drain any excess fat before proceeding with the recipe.
- Extra Cheesy: For the ultimate cheesy experience, sprinkle an additional layer of grated Parmesan cheese over each serving just before bringing it to the table. A dash of nutritional yeast also adds a cheesy, umami flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes for a convenient and delicious packed lunch the next day.
Nutrition Information
This one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta offers a satisfying and reasonably balanced meal. It provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates for energy.
For reliable data on the nutritional content of various foods, the USDA FoodData Central database is an excellent resource.
While specific values vary based on brands and exact measurements, a typical serving offers a hearty meal. This dish is designed to be a fulfilling part of a balanced diet. Consult a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.
| Serving Size | 1 Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 425 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 43 g |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 98 mg |
| Sodium | 252 mg |
| Potassium | 314 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 217 IU |
| Calcium | 163 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate based on average ingredient values and may vary.
FAQ
You might have a few questions about making this incredible one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta. Here are some common queries answered.
Can I use uncooked chicken?
Yes, you certainly can! Brown diced raw chicken breast or thighs directly in the pot with a little olive oil before adding the marinara sauce and other ingredients. Cook until no longer pink, then proceed with the recipe.
What size marinara jar should I use?
A standard jar of marinara sauce is typically 24-28 ounces, which is approximately 3 cups. This amount works perfectly for the recipe’s proportions.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Store leftovers of this delicious one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What other pasta types work well?
Short pasta shapes are best for this one-pot method. Besides penne or rotini, consider using cavatappi, ziti, or medium shells; they cook evenly in the sauce.
Is it suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! This dish reheats beautifully and makes excellent leftovers, making it a fantastic option for your weekly meal prep. Portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
This one pot easy 4 ingredient chicken pasta truly embodies simplicity, speed, and deliciousness, delivering a comforting meal with minimal effort. It’s a perfect example of how you can create a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This family-friendly meal is not just easy; it’s incredibly flavorful and sure to become a regular in your rotation. We encourage you to try this recipe, rate your experience, and share your delicious creations with Sweet Emily!
