One Pan Sweet And Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta

Love sweet, smoky flavors with a garlic kick? This one pan chicken pasta is full of cozy, bold taste you’ll love!

You get tender chicken, creamy pasta, sweet garlic, and a hint of smoky spice—all in one easy pan. Every bite is rich, warm, and super satisfying.

Perfect for weeknights, quick meals, or when you want comfort food with a twist. One pan. Big flavor. Easy cleanup.

Grab your skillet and pasta—let’s make this sweet and smoky garlic chicken pasta tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. Everything cooks together in one pan.
• Balanced Sweet & Smoky Flavors: The brown sugar pairs perfectly with garlic and smoked paprika.
• Creamy Without Heavy Cream: Chicken broth and tomato juices create a rich, silky sauce.
• Great for Weeknights: Easy to prep and ready in under an hour.
• Kid-Friendly and Grown-Up Approved: A crowd-pleaser for all ages.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes
Servings: Serves 4–6
Difficulty: Easy – no fancy techniques or tools required.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients for Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful one-pan pasta (exact amounts in the recipe card below):

• Olive Oil – Helps brown the chicken and brings everything together
• Chicken Breast – Diced for quick cooking and even browning
• Garlic (minced) – Key to the deep, savory base flavor
• Smoked Paprika – Adds that signature smoky warmth
• Brown Sugar – Balances out the spices with a hint of sweetness
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning
• Pasta (penne or farfalle) – Holds the sauce well and cooks in the broth
• Chicken Broth – Infuses the pasta with savory flavor as it simmers
• Cherry Tomatoes (halved) – Add freshness and a slight tang
• Fresh Spinach – Wilted in at the end for color and nutrients

Optional Garnish:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley

Variations for Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Swap the Protein: Use turkey breast, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a twist.
• Add Heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Try a Different Pasta: Shells or rigatoni work well too—just adjust cook time.
• Creamier Sauce: Add a splash of milk or a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end for extra richness.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

How to Make One Pan Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step

1. Sauté the Chicken

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned and nearly cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and brown sugar.

2. Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and tomatoes start to soften.

3. Add Pasta and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and uncooked pasta. Stir well to combine. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

4. Add Spinach

Once pasta is tender, fold in fresh spinach. Let it wilt for 1–2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.

Serving and Decoration

Serve hot, straight from the pan. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh, savory finish.

• For a Meal: Pair with a side salad or crusty bread.
• For Kids: Serve with a sprinkle of mozzarella for a creamy, stretchy bite.

Storing Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat Tips: Add a splash of broth or water before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep it moist.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as pasta can become mushy once thawed. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Cut Chicken Evenly: Dice chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Stir Occasionally: Prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom by stirring every few minutes.
• Balance the Sauce: Taste at the end and adjust sugar, salt, or acid (like a squeeze of lemon juice) if needed.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: Allows you to better control the saltiness of the dish.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving (1/6 of recipe)
Calories	420
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	4g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	6g
Sodium	540mg
Vitamin A	20% DV
Vitamin C	25% DV
Calcium	10% DV
Iron	15% DV

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific brands and ingredient swaps.

Chili Garlic Chicken Pasta FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and stay juicy. Just trim excess fat and dice evenly.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

You can use regular paprika, but the smoky flavor gives this dish its signature taste.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms instead.

What pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle hold up well in this dish.

Conclusion

This One Pan Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta is one of those back-pocket meals that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss. It’s rich, savory, slightly sweet, and filled with garlic-forward comfort. Perfect for weeknights, lunch leftovers, or feeding a hungry crowd without the mess of multiple pots.