This Creamy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With a rich and flavorful cream sauce enveloping juicy chicken and your choice of pasta, it’s a dish that pleases every palate. You can easily customize it with delicious add-ons like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cheeses and spices creates a decadent sauce that elevates any meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the pasta for endless variations.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or entertaining guests; everyone will love this creamy delight.
- Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein and flavor, this dish satisfies without being overly indulgent.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pot for boiling pasta
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and preparing the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Cooking spoon: Ensures even mixing of ingredients for a consistent flavor throughout the dish.
- Measuring cups: Helps you accurately measure ingredients for perfect results every time.
Ingredients
This Creamy Chicken Pasta has the most flavorful cream sauce tossed with juicy chicken and any kind of pasta! Add-on options include spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, and more!
For the Chicken
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast
- Salt/pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup flour
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 ¼ cups half and half (half light cream, half milk)
- ¾ cups chicken broth
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/3 cup Romano cheese (grated, see notes)
For the Pasta
- ½ lb. pasta (any kind)
- 1 cup pasta water (optional)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 lemon (optional)
- ½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley (all dried seasonings)
- 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breast and cook until golden brown on both sides; about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant; about 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle flour over garlic and stir to create a roux; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in dry white wine until smooth.
- Slowly add half and half and chicken broth while continuing to whisk until combined.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Crumble in the chicken bouillon cube and stir until dissolved.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese and Romano cheese until melted.
- Season with onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley, and smoked paprika.
Step 4: Cook Pasta
- Meanwhile, boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 5: Final Assembly
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet with cream sauce.
- Toss well to combine; if needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve hot with an optional squeeze of lemon juice on top.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy dish!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta
Serving Creamy Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making the meal delightful. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives add a mild onion flavor that complements the cream sauce.
Add Vegetables
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sauté spinach with garlic until wilted, then stir it into the pasta for added nutrition.
- Roasted Tomatoes: Roasting tomatoes brings out their sweetness and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Serve with a Citrus Twist
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the dish and enhance the flavors of the chicken and pasta.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their pasta, adding a refreshing tang.
Cheese Lovers Delight
- Extra Parmesan: Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want a cheesier experience.
- Feta Crumbles: Feta adds a salty contrast that works well with the creaminess of the pasta.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta
To ensure your Creamy Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality cheeses make a significant difference in flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures it holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices slowly to achieve perfect seasoning.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Pasta can elevate your meal even further. Consider these delicious options that complement this main course.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the creamy dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the pasta.
- Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a vibrant flavor contrast.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs makes an excellent appetizer before diving into your main course.
- Roasted Asparagus: The earthy taste of roasted asparagus pairs well with creamy dishes, making it an excellent side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Pasta can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and sauce properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season each layer, including the chicken, pasta, and sauce.
- Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink inside for juicy results.
- Ignoring pasta water: Pasta water contains starch that helps thicken the sauce. Reserve some before draining to enhance the creaminess.
- Using low-quality wine: A poor-quality wine can ruin the flavor of your sauce. Choose a drinkable dry white wine for the best results.
- Not allowing the sauce to simmer: Rushing the cooking process means missing out on rich flavors. Let your sauce simmer gently to deepen its taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- It’s best to freeze without fresh ingredients like spinach or tomatoes added.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Pasta.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing cheese amounts. You can also add more vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing for kids. You can adjust spices according to their taste preferences.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your preference. Try this comforting dish today; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Indulge in this Creamy Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with a rich and flavorful cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable with your choice of vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. In just 50 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that pleases every palate. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or entertaining guests, this creamy pasta is sure to become a favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 1/4 cups half and half
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 lb pasta (any kind)
- Salt/pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
- 1/3 cup Romano cheese (grated, see notes)
- 1 cup pasta water (optional)
- 1 lemon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon EACH: onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley (all dried seasonings)
- 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown on both sides (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove from heat and slice.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Sprinkle flour to create a roux and gradually whisk in wine, half and half, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Stir in crumbled bouillon cube and cheeses until melted. Add seasonings as desired.
- Boil pasta according to package instructions; reserve pasta water before draining.
- Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
