Creamy Chicken and Pasta

Creamy Chicken and Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety cream sauce. This simple yet indulgent dish is perfect for cozy dinners, quick weeknight meals, or even entertaining guests without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings
• Rich, creamy, and satisfying with every bite
• Easily customizable with different vegetables or pasta shapes
• Kid-friendly and appealing to all ages
• Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, cooking until the sauce slightly thickens.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and mix into the sauce.
8. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine everything evenly.
9. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne
• Low-fat: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream
• Gluten-free: Swap pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety
• Protein twist: Try with shrimp, sausage, or tofu

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze before adding pasta for best texture, up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Short pasta like penne or fusilli works well, but fettuccine or linguine are also excellent for creamy sauces.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it when the sauce is done to warm it through without overcooking.

Is there a way to make it dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives for a lactose-free version.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

What vegetables go well with this dish?

Spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes complement the creamy flavor.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Consider adding a bit of flour or cheese to help thicken it.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but store the pasta and sauce separately to avoid soggy texture.

What should I serve with creamy chicken and pasta?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Pasta is a quick, satisfying dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, this creamy, savory pasta is bound to become a favorite. Adjust it to your taste and enjoy it fresh or as delicious leftovers.

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