This One Pot Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta saved my dinner more times than I can count. It’s the kind of meal I turn to when I’m tired, hungry, and just want something easy but special. The first time I made it, I had no plan — just some chicken, a can of tomatoes, and a spoonful of mascarpone. But what came out of that pot was pure comfort.
Creamy, tangy, full of garlic and herbs, and ready in under 30 minutes… this pasta checks all the boxes. And with just one pot to clean? Let’s just say it’s now part of my weekly rotation.
Why I Love This One Pot Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
There’s something magical about tossing everything into one pot and watching it turn into a full, rich, flavorful meal. This One Pot Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta hits that sweet spot between cozy and quick. The chicken stays juicy, the mascarpone makes the sauce unbelievably creamy, and the tomatoes add just the right tang.
What I really love? No need to cook the pasta separately. No piles of dishes. Just one pot, one spoon, and a dinner that feels like it took hours — even though it didn’t.
ingredients
Here’s a quick look at everything you’ll need to make this creamy, one-pot wonder:
2 chicken breasts, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp chili paste (optional)
2 tsp dried oregano
400g canned chopped tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp balsamic vinegar
500ml chicken stock
250g fusilli pasta
20g fresh basil, torn
80g mascarpone cheese
That’s it. Simple pantry staples, fresh herbs, and one pot — exactly how I like it.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
Step 1:
In a large sauté pan or deep pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until browned on all sides — about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2:
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and chili paste (if using). Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the oregano, tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 3:
Pour in the chicken stock and add the dry pasta. Stir in the cooked chicken and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Step 4:
Turn off the heat and stir in the mascarpone cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add the fresh basil and gently mix everything together.
Step 5:
Serve warm, garnished with extra basil or a sprinkle of parmesan if you’d like. That’s it — dinner is ready!
More One-Pot Comforts You’ll Love
One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
One Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken
How I Like to Serve It
This one pot creamy tomato chicken pasta is a full meal on its own — but here’s how I sometimes take it up a notch:
A simple green salad on the side adds freshness and crunch.
Garlic bread? Yes please. It’s perfect for scooping up the extra sauce.
A light sprinkle of red chili flakes or fresh black pepper for that final kick.
And don’t forget a cozy drink — a warm herbal tea or sparkling lemonade pairs surprisingly well.
Little Tips That Make a Big Difference
Don’t overcook the pasta. Since it’s cooking right in the sauce, keep an eye on it so it stays perfectly al dente.
Use rotisserie chicken if you’re in a rush — just skip step one and stir it in later.
Make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and using veggie stock — it’s still so flavorful!
Want it spicier? Add more chili paste or a pinch of cayenne.
Got Questions? I’ve Got You!
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti will work — just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I use cream instead of mascarpone?
Yes, you can! Heavy cream or even cream cheese works in a pinch, though mascarpone gives the smoothest finish.
Does this pasta reheat well?
It sure does. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently with a splash of stock or water to loosen the sauce.
If comfort food had a dating profile, this one-pot creamy tomato chicken pasta would be “warm, cheesy, and emotionally available.” 😄 Give it a try—you might just fall in love!
One Pot Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large Sauté Pan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp chili paste optional
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 400 g canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 500 ml chicken stock
- 250 g fusilli pasta
- 20 g fresh basil torn
- 80 g mascarpone cheese
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a deep sauté pan over medium heat. Add diced chicken pieces and sauté until golden on the outside, about 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Using the same pan, add minced garlic and chili paste if desired. Stir briefly until aromatic, then add oregano, tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar. Let the mixture simmer to concentrate flavors, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken stock and add the dry fusilli pasta. Stir in the reserved chicken, bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring now and then, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and mix in mascarpone until fully melted into a creamy sauce. Add torn basil leaves and stir gently to finish the dish with fresh herbal flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or a bit of parmesan if desired. Enjoy immediately.