There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm, creamy bowl of chicken pasta after a long day. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, velvety sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta for the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this creamy chicken pasta recipe delivers both flavor and simplicity.
With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time. Plus, it’s easily customizable—add vegetables, switch up the cheese, or spice it up to suit your taste. Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and absolutely delicious!
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Why Pasta Lovers Adore Creamy Chicken Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pasta is a dish that wins hearts for many reasons. It’s the perfect balance of rich, velvety sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal every time. But what makes this dish so beloved among pasta enthusiasts?
Irresistible Creamy Texture — The luscious, smooth sauce coats every strand of pasta, making each bite indulgent and full of flavor.
Perfectly Juicy Chicken — Well-seasoned and cooked to perfection, the chicken adds a hearty and protein-rich element to the dish.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- • 2 cups pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
- • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- • 2 tablespoons olive oil
- • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- • 1 teaspoon paprika
- • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cream Sauce:
- • 2 tablespoons butter
- • 3 garlic cloves, minced
- • 1 cup heavy cream
- • 1 cup chicken broth
- • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Creamy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- 2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- 3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 2. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- 3. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
- 1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- 2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.
- 4. Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- 5. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add some reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- 1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well with the sauce.
- 2. Add the cooked pasta, tossing until everything is well coated.
- 3. Let the pasta simmer for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
- • Garnish with fresh parsley and chili flakes (if desired).
- • Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe
1. Use the Right Cut of Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs work best for tenderness and flavor. Cut them into even pieces for uniform cooking.
2. Season the Chicken Well
- Before cooking, season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance the flavor. Letting it marinate for a few minutes improves taste.
3. Cook the Chicken First
- Sear the chicken in a hot pan until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove it before making the sauce to prevent overcooking and dryness.
4. Use Fresh Garlic and Onion
- These ingredients add depth to the sauce. Sauté them until fragrant before adding liquids.
5. Choose the Right Pasta
- Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work best because they hold the creamy sauce well. Cook pasta al dente for the perfect texture.
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