This Creamy Chicken Pasta is your go-to dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. With juicy chicken and a luscious cream sauce, this recipe is bursting with flavor. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Perfect for weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can prepare this dish in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of cheeses and seasonings creates a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your pasta with vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends with its delightful flavors.
- Comfort Food Classic: Creamy Chicken Pasta offers the ultimate comfort food experience that warms the heart.
Tools and Preparation
To create the best Creamy Chicken Pasta, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing enough space for the sauce.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly without lumps in your creamy sauce.
- Cutting board & knife: Essential for safely chopping ingredients like garlic and chicken.
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)
Seasonings
- 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 on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breast and cook until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let it rest.
Step 2: Create the Sauce Base
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle in flour gradually while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Build Your Creamy Sauce
- Slowly pour in dry white wine while continuing to whisk until smooth.
- Stir in half-and-half along with chicken broth and bouillon cube; mix well.
- Add grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses; stir until melted into a creamy consistency.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Slice cooked chicken into strips and add it back into the sauce along with cooked pasta.
- Mix everything together well; if needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired creaminess.
Now you’re ready to serve this delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta! Top it off with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor! Enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
Serve with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to your creamy dish.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Crunchy Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crunchy garlic bread on the side for a perfect complement to the creamy sauce.
Add a Side Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Top with Grated Cheese
- Parmesan or Romano: Sprinkle extra grated cheese on top before serving for an added layer of flavor.
Drizzle with Lemon Juice
- Fresh Lemon Zest: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the dish and enhances the flavors.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Pasta, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken will elevate the taste significantly.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Season Generously: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for optimal flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta
Complement your Creamy Chicken Pasta with these delicious side dishes that enhance the meal without overpowering it.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil and garlic adds a healthy touch.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons offers a classic pairing.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon butter provides a refreshing contrast.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a vibrant addition.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil gives an Italian flair to your meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the creamy sauce for extra comfort food appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Creamy Chicken Pasta experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using too much flour: Adding excessive flour can thicken the sauce too much, making it gummy. Stick to the recommended measurements for a smooth consistency.
- Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it may dry out. Ensure you cook it just until it’s no longer pink inside.
- Neglecting pasta water: Not reserving pasta water can hinder sauce consistency. Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce as needed.
- Skipping seasonings: Omitting spices or seasonings can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking.
- Not mixing properly: Failing to combine the pasta and sauce well can result in uneven flavor distribution. Stir thoroughly to ensure every bite is delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a covered dish and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Pasta that might help you.
What type of pasta works best for Creamy Chicken Pasta?
Any type of pasta works well, but fettuccine or penne is particularly great at holding onto the creamy sauce.
Can I add vegetables to Creamy Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make excellent additions. Just sauté them before adding to the sauce.
Is Creamy Chicken Pasta easy to make?
Yes! This recipe is easy and perfect for weeknight dinners while still being deliciously satisfying.
How do I make my sauce creamier?
To boost creaminess, use more half-and-half or add a bit of cream cheese. You can also stir in extra cheese before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with vegetables or different types of pasta based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to impress!
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Pasta. This delightful dish features tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a rich and velvety cream sauce, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. In just under an hour, you’ll create a flavorful meal that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home.
- 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
- ½ lb pasta (any type)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup flour
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 ¼ cups half-and-half
- ¾ cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Romano cheese
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides (approximately 5-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and let rest.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant.
- Gradually whisk in flour to avoid lumps. Slowly pour in dry white wine while whisking until smooth.
- Stir in half-and-half and chicken broth along with the bouillon cube. Add both cheeses; stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; slice cooked chicken into strips and add back into the sauce along with drained pasta. Mix well and add reserved pasta water as necessary for desired creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
