Creamy Chicken Pasta

by

Description:

This Creamy Chicken Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and velvety sauce. Made with simple ingredients like garlic, cream, and Parmesan, this comforting pasta dish comes together quickly and is sure to please the whole family. It’s a delicious balance of creamy goodness and hearty flavors.

Ingredients (Quantities):

  • Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice): 12 oz
  • Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, sliced thin): 2 large
  • Heavy cream: 1 ½ cups
  • Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): 1 ¼ cups
  • Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Chicken broth: ¼ cup
  • Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Fresh parsley (chopped): 2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients:

  • Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (for a spicy kick)
  • Spinach (fresh): 2 cups (for added greens)
  • Mushrooms (sliced): 1 cup (adds earthiness)
  • Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (for brightness)
  • Bacon (cooked and crumbled): ¼ cup (for extra richness)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté garlic and optional veggies: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. If using mushrooms or spinach, sauté them for a few minutes until softened.
  4. Make the creamy sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to loosen it.
  5. Combine everything: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
  6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips for Success:

  • Don’t overcook the chicken: Slice the chicken thinly to ensure it cooks evenly and quickly. Avoid overcooking for tender and juicy results.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: This will melt better and make the sauce creamier.
  • Pasta water trick: Reserve some pasta cooking water to thin the sauce if needed, as the starch in the water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.

Recommendations:

  • Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
  • For an extra pop of flavor, drizzle a little lemon juice or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Nutrition (per serving, estimated):

  • Calories: 690
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 45g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Sugars: 3g

Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Chicken Pasta!

Leave a Comment