creamy chicken and sausage pasta

One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Introduction

Creamy chicken and sausage pasta is your go-to recipe when you want something fast, filling, and full of flavor. With smoky sausage, tender chicken, and pasta coated in a rich, cheesy cream sauce, this dish turns pantry basics into pure comfort. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress without fuss, this one-pan pasta delivers. In this guide, you’ll get a personal story behind the recipe, a breakdown of ingredients, helpful tips, and easy-to-follow steps—plus answers to common questions. If you love creamy, crave-worthy pasta dishes, you’re in the right place.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
creamy chicken and sausage pasta

One-Pot Creamy Chicken And Sausage Pasta


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x

Description

Creamy chicken and sausage pasta made in 30 minutes—smoky, cheesy, and comforting. One pot, full flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners!


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

8 oz smoked sausage, sliced

12 oz penne pasta

2 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)


Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

2. Add sausage slices to the pot and cook until lightly browned. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 2 minutes.

3. Return chicken to the pot. Add chicken broth, cream, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir in uncooked pasta.

4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is cooked.

5. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time.

Add chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for variation.

Use spicy andouille sausage for a Cajun twist.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 880mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Why I Love Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Why creamy chipotle chicken pasta is a perfect balance of flavor and texture
Why I Love Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta Is My Comfort Go-To

Creamy chicken and sausage pasta always brings me back to a warm evening on a hillside in Umbria. The sun had just dipped behind the trees, and we were gathered around a worn wooden table outside a farmhouse. No menus, no fuss—just one big pot of pasta with chicken, sausage, and a silky sauce that made everyone pause after the first bite. It was so simple, yet so satisfying.

Back in my kitchen near Florence, I’ve made creamy chicken and sausage pasta more times than I can count. Some days I add spinach, others I toss in sun-dried tomatoes like in this pasta with sausage and sun-dried tomatoes version. But this recipe here? It’s the one I make when I want something fast and familiar. I use smoked sausage for depth, chicken breast for balance, and a touch of Parmesan to round it out.

This dish is more than just dinner—it’s my edible reminder that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be memorable. When the cream starts to bubble, the cheese melts in, and the pasta turns perfectly tender, I know I’ve got a meal that makes people smile.

If you’re curious about adding a smoky twist, check out this cajun pasta with smoked sausage. It’s a great spin on the base recipe and equally easy to love.

Why Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta Always Works

There’s a reason creamy chicken and sausage pasta has become a weeknight staple in our house. It’s rich, but not heavy. The sausage adds boldness, while the chicken keeps it familiar. The cream sauce wraps everything together in a way that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.

Better yet, you don’t need specialty ingredients. Everything—chicken breast, pasta, broth, cream, and cheese—is something you probably already have on hand. And with just one pan and thirty minutes, you’re set.

I’ve made it for casual dinners and cozy nights in, and it always hits the mark. It’s a dish that feeds the soul and fills the belly, no reservations required.

If you want more delicious and protein-rich dishes, I advise you to try Healthy and Delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl or BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl.

Ingredients That Make Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta Irresistible

Raw ingredients for creamy chicken and sausage pasta arranged on a wooden board
Ingredients That Make Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta Irresistible

What You Need for Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta

At the heart of creamy chicken and sausage pasta is a simple list of everyday ingredients that work together beautifully. You’ll start with boneless, skinless chicken breast—tender, lean, and ready to soak up flavor. Add to that some sliced smoked sausage, which brings the bold, slightly spicy bite that makes this dish stand out.

Penne pasta is perfect here. Its tube shape catches every drop of the rich cream sauce. You’ll build that sauce with chicken broth, heavy cream, mozzarella, and a touch of Parmesan. Garlic and onions lay the foundation, while paprika gives it that gentle smoky push.

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds heat, if that’s your thing. And parsley? Totally optional, but it’s a nice fresh contrast. If you’ve cooked something like chicken pasta recipe no cream, you’ll recognize how balance is everything in this kind of dish.

What’s great is that none of these ingredients are expensive or hard to find. You could probably make creamy chicken and sausage pasta tonight without an extra trip to the store.

Variations to Make It Your Own

Once you’ve got the basics down, you can easily switch things up. Try spicy andouille sausage for a deeper Cajun flavor, or go mild with kielbasa. Not a fan of penne? Use rotini, rigatoni, or even shells.

You could add spinach, kale, or chopped tomatoes for a veggie boost. Some like a Cajun-style kick, similar to this cajun shrimp and smoked sausage pasta, which brings seafood into the mix too.

No heavy cream? You can sub in whole milk and add a little cream cheese to thicken it.

Whether you go classic or creative, creamy chicken and sausage pasta is incredibly forgiving—and always flavorful.

Cooking Tips for Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta Perfection

How to Build Layers of Flavor in Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta

The real secret behind amazing creamy chicken and sausage pasta isn’t just the ingredients—it’s how you cook them. Start by heating olive oil in a large pan and browning your diced chicken. Don’t rush this step. Let the pieces sit in the pan so they form that golden crust. That’s flavor.

Next, cook the sliced sausage. Let it sear and release those savory oils into the pan. Once that happens, throw in your chopped onion and garlic. You’ll want to cook them just until they’re soft and fragrant—not browned. This base gives your sauce its depth.

After returning the chicken to the pot, stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Let it warm gently before adding your dry pasta. Simmer on low. This is where the magic happens: the pasta cooks while absorbing all the creamy, savory flavor. For more Cajun-style layers, see how it’s done in this shrimp sausage and chicken pasta—same technique, just more heat.

When the pasta’s tender, stir in the cheeses. Let them melt fully before serving. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce clings to your spoon and coats the noodles without feeling heavy.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Don’t let your cream boil. That’s how sauces break or separate. Keep the heat low when the cream and cheese go in. If you’re multitasking, keep a close eye.

Don’t overcook the pasta, either. Since it simmers in the sauce, it softens faster than in water. Taste early and stir often.

Also, don’t skip seasoning. Taste before serving and adjust the salt and pepper. A touch more paprika or chili flake can make all the difference.

Need a lighter version? This chicken pasta recipe without cream offers a fresh take with plenty of flavor.

Step-by-Step Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta (The Easy Way)

This creamy chicken and sausage pasta comes together fast, so have your ingredients prepped before you start. Here’s how I do it:

1. Brown the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

2. Sauté the sausage and aromatics. In the same pot, add sliced smoked sausage. Cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned. Toss in chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until soft and fragrant.

3. Build the sauce. Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Add paprika, optional red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Add the pasta. Stir in uncooked penne. Make sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a boil.

5. Simmer. Reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring once or twice, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

6. Finish with cheese. Turn off the heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy. The sauce should coat the pasta without being too thick or too thin.

7. Serve it up. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like. Serve hot straight from the pot—or spoon it onto warm plates if you’re feeling fancy.

If you enjoyed the flavor balance here, try something different like boursin chicken pasta with tomatoes or go rustic with chicken boursin cheese pasta.

How to Serve and Store Leftovers

Serve creamy chicken and sausage pasta with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of crisp white wine? Even better.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. It reheats beautifully.

FAQs About Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in creamy chicken and sausage pasta. Just add it during the final simmer with the pasta to warm it through. Since it’s already cooked, you can skip the browning step.

2. How do I keep the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low after adding the heavy cream and cheese. Never let it boil. Stir gently until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts. Patience is key to that silky finish.

3. What’s the best sausage for creamy chicken and sausage pasta?

Smoked sausage like andouille or kielbasa adds bold flavor and holds up well in the sauce. If you prefer something milder, turkey or chicken sausage works too.

4. Can I make creamy chicken and sausage pasta ahead of time?

You can make it up to two days ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. It also freezes well for up to one month.

Conclusion

Creamy chicken and sausage pasta is the kind of meal that never disappoints—warm, rich, and packed with flavor in every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but satisfying enough to serve guests. With smoky sausage, juicy chicken, and a silky sauce that clings to every noodle, this dish checks every box for comfort food.

What I love most is how adaptable it is. You can keep it classic, add heat, or swap in different pasta and cheeses depending on your mood. It’s one of those recipes that becomes a regular in your rotation—not because it’s trendy, but because it’s that good.

If you’re hungry for more ideas like this, check out the full collection of recipes—from creamy to spicy, there’s a pasta for every craving.

Give it a try, share it with your favorite people, and don’t forget to save it for later. This is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star