This Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich, flavorful cream sauce tossed over your favorite pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is versatile and can be customized with add-ons like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. The standout quality of this dish lies in its creamy texture and the balance of flavors that create a satisfying meal for everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Prepare: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up a delicious meal in under an hour.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce, combined with Italian seasonings, elevates the taste to restaurant quality.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personalized twist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a date night at home, this pasta dish fits right in.
- Comfort Food Winner: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a comforting choice on any day.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A must-have for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce efficiently.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient portions which is key for flavor balance.
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
For the Creamy Base
- 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 Add-ons
- 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: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through.
- Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into strips.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in flour to create a roux; stir until combined.
- Gradually pour in white wine while stirring to prevent lumps.
- Add half and half and chicken broth; mix well until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Stir in grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses until melted into the sauce.
- If desired, add optional seasonings for extra flavor.
- Toss in cooked pasta along with sliced chicken; mix to coat evenly.
Step 4: Serve
- If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Garnish with lemon juice if using. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. You can elevate your meal by adding fresh ingredients or choosing complementary flavors.
Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
Grated Cheese
- Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese enhances the creaminess.
- Romano: Adds a sharper taste that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
Vegetables
- Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach for added nutrients and color.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes offer a sweet contrast to the creamy sauce.
Lemon Zest
- Zesty Finish: Grate fresh lemon zest over the pasta for a bright, citrusy note.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta
To make your Creamy Chicken Pasta even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality cheese make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Control Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is ideal for retaining texture.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Try incorporating mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Season Generously: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh to maintain creaminess and warmth.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside; perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli offers a healthy balance alongside creamy pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the heavy dish.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts provide crunch and an earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken and cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Pasta can be simple, but a few common mistakes can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland pasta. Always season your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.
- Not using enough liquid – Using insufficient liquids in the sauce can make it too thick or dry. Ensure you add enough half-and-half and chicken broth for a creamy texture.
- Overcooking the pasta – Cooking pasta longer than needed leads to mushy noodles. Follow package instructions and cook until al dente for the best results.
- Neglecting the pasta water – Discarding pasta water can be a missed opportunity for enhancing the sauce’s consistency. Save some water to adjust the sauce as needed.
- Forgetting about add-ins – Leaving out extra ingredients like spinach or tomatoes can limit flavor and nutrition. Customize your dish with your favorite veggies for added goodness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label it!
Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop – Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Creamy Chicken Pasta that may help clarify preparation methods and variations.
Can I use different types of pasta for Creamy Chicken Pasta?
Yes! Any pasta shape works well, from penne to fettuccine. Choose your favorite!
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat pasta or add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
What is the best way to store leftovers of Creamy Chicken Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I customize my Creamy Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe is not only delicious but also highly versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you have room for creativity by adding various vegetables or proteins. Give it a try, and enjoy creating your version of this comforting dish!
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly combines tender chicken with a luxuriously rich cream sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta. This versatile dish can be tailored to suit any taste by adding vegetables like spinach or tomatoes, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its delightful creamy texture and balanced flavors, this recipe promises to become a staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast
- Salt and pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup flour
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1¼ cups half and half
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ lb. pasta of choice
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and slice.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter, then add flour to create a roux. Gradually stir in white wine, followed by half and half and chicken broth until smooth.
- Mix in cheeses until melted, then toss in cooked pasta and sliced chicken until well coated.
- Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed, garnish with lemon juice if desired, and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
