This dish combines chicken and pasta in a creamy sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare. It’s flavorful and comforting, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why you’ll love this dish
This dish balances tender chicken, pasta, and a rich sauce that adds a touch of elegance to dinner. It’s versatile and easy to adjust based on what you have on hand.
"This is my go-to meal – it always impresses!"
You’ll enjoy the combination of textures and the convenience of a one-pot meal.
The cooking process explained
Start by cooking the chicken and garlic. Then, incorporate the broth and cream before adding pasta. Simmer until the pasta is cooked and the sauce thickens. Finish with seasonings and cheese.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total Time: 30 min
What you’ll need
- Chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Pasta (any shape)
- Parmesan cheese
- Spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Note: You can swap chicken for turkey if preferred.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to skillet; cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken, then add minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream and add pasta; cover and cook until pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Return chicken to the pan, add spinach if using, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season to taste.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve this dish with a side salad and garlic bread. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a fuller experience.
Storage and reheating tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F.
- Fresh herbs can enhance flavor; consider basil or parsley as a garnish.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it’ll continue to absorb liquid while resting.
Recipe variations
- Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it earlier in the day and refrigerate. Reheat before serving.
What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta shape will work, but short ones like penne or fusilli hold sauce well.
Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended; the cream can separate when reheated.
Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A quick and satisfying one-pot meal that combines tender chicken and pasta in a creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 Chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 8 oz Pasta (any shape)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup Spinach (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to skillet; cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken, then add minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream and add pasta; cover and cook until pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Return chicken to the pan, add spinach if using, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season to taste.
Notes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance flavor. Avoid overcooking pasta as it will continue to absorb liquid. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken pasta, creamy pasta, one-pot meal, weeknight dinner, Italian recipe