Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of this Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe, a dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to make.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Add Cheese and Peas:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Add the frozen peas (if using) and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Tips:
Side Dishes: Pair this creamy chicken pasta with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette also makes a great side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Wine Pairing: Complement the rich flavors with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
Toppings: Add extra grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat, or a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the pasta is completely cooled before sealing the container.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
Freezing: Although this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To freeze, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to cook it al dente according to the package instructions.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less rich and creamy. To help thicken the sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water when using lighter dairy options.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure that the chicken broth and any seasonings you use are also gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! In addition to or instead of the peas, you can add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Simply sauté them with the onions or stir them into the sauce for added texture and nutrition.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to create a comforting, delicious meal in under 30 minutes. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a dish that’s both simple and indulgent!
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Chicken Pasta is a comforting and rich dish made with tender chicken, penne pasta, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this meal is ready in just 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights, this pasta recipe is a family favorite, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
8 ounces penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Add Cheese and Peas: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the frozen peas (if using) and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For added flavor, consider sautéing mushrooms or spinach with the onions.
If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of pasta water or additional chicken broth.
This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
