One-Pot Chicken and Artichoke Cavatappi
This comforting one-pot pasta features tender seared chicken, briny artichoke hearts, and cavatappi pasta simmered together in a light lemon-garlic cream sauce. It’s rich without being heavy, brightened with herbs and finished with Parmesan for a cozy Mediterranean-inspired dinner and minimal cleanup.
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika (sweet)
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ small onion or 1 shallot, finely chopped
½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
2½ cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
225 g (8 oz) cavatappi pasta
1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained & halved
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
1. Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
Add to the pot and cook 4–5 minutes until lightly golden (not fully cooked). Remove and set aside.
2. Build the flavor base
In the same pot, add onion and cook 2–3 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze with white wine and simmer 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
3. Cook the pasta
Add chicken broth, cream, and cavatappi pasta. Stir well.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
4. Finish the dish
Return chicken to the pot along with artichokes and lemon zest.
Simmer 3–4 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and sauce thickens.
Stir in Parmesan and fresh herbs. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve
Serve warm with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips for Best Results
Stir occasionally so pasta doesn’t stick
Use marinated artichokes for extra flavor
Add a splash of pasta water or broth if sauce thickens too much
Chicken thighs work well if you prefer juicier meat
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead?
Yes—store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.
Can I use another pasta shape?
Absolutely—penne, rotini, or fusilli work well.
Is this dish spicy?
No—it’s creamy, lemony, and mild.
Can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of cream.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 540 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Fat: 26 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fiber: 4 g