This Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful cream sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe stands out with its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, making it suitable for various occasions. Get ready to impress everyone at the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The cream sauce is rich and savory, making every bite a delight.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your choice of pasta and add-ins like spinach or mushrooms.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy goodness of this dish.
- Easy Cleanup: Minimal pots and pans means less time washing up after dinner.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Creamy Chicken Pasta efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the tools you will need to create this delicious meal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: This allows for even cooking of the chicken and sauce without overcrowding.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of ingredients like garlic for maximum flavor.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to perfect results every time.
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!
Protein
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast
Seasonings
- Salt/pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley (all dried seasonings)
- 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
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)
Pasta
- ½ lb. pasta (any kind)
Optional Add-ons
- 1 cup pasta water (optional)
- 1 lemon (optional)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, season your chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, cook the seasoned chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour gradually to create a roux. Slowly whisk in white wine until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add half and half and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in grated Parmesan and Romano cheese until melted. If using optional pasta water for consistency, add it gradually until desired thickness is reached.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While preparing the sauce, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain when done but reserve some pasta water.
Step 5: Finish Up
Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Combine the pasta with the sauce in the skillet; gently toss to coat everything evenly. Add sliced chicken on top before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta, which can be garnished with lemon juice or extra cheese if desired!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be presented in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and freshness to the creamy sauce.
On a Bed of Greens
- Spinach: Serve your pasta on a bed of wilted spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Arugula: The peppery taste of arugula complements the richness of the creamy sauce beautifully.
Accompanied by Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Pair your creamy chicken pasta with warm garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Baguette Slices: Toasted baguette slices provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta
To achieve the ultimate Creamy Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality chicken and fresh herbs enhances flavor significantly.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures your pasta has the right texture and holds the sauce well.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if it’s too thick, ensuring it coats the pasta evenly.
- Balance Flavors: Adding lemon juice can brighten up the dish and balance its creaminess.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta
Complementing Creamy Chicken Pasta with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic adds flavor and nutrition.
- Caesar Salad: This classic salad provides a crunchy texture and tangy taste that pairs well with creamy dishes.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and is easy to prepare alongside your main course.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto is another rich option that works harmoniously with Creamy Chicken Pasta.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a tasty appetizer before your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Pasta can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: This can lead to mushy noodles. Always cook pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken and sauce properly can result in bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously to enhance taste.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise the dish. Opt for good quality chicken and cheese for the best results.
- Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water helps thicken and bind the sauce. Make sure to save some before draining your pasta.
- Ignoring resting time for chicken: Cutting into chicken right after cooking can make it dry. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of pasta water if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries related to Creamy Chicken Pasta:
What type of pasta is best for Creamy Chicken Pasta?
Any pasta works well, but fettuccine or penne holds the creamy sauce nicely.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes make great additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.
How do I make my sauce thicker?
You can use more flour or let the sauce simmer longer to reduce and thicken it.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep; just follow storage instructions properly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings based on your taste. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that transforms tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta into a delightful meal. The rich, savory cream sauce envelops every bite, making this dish perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests. With easy customization options such as adding your favorite vegetables, it caters to everyone’s tastes. Whether served on a bed of greens or with crusty garlic bread, this indulgent pasta dish will impress at any table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast
- ½ lb. pasta (any kind)
- ¼ cup flour
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 ¼ cups half and half
- ¾ cups chicken broth
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden. Remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Gradually whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly add white wine until smooth.
- Stir in half and half and chicken broth, mixing until combined. Add grated cheeses until melted.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain while reserving some pasta water.
- Slice the cooked chicken and combine pasta with the sauce in the skillet. Garnish with sliced chicken before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
