Chicken Pasta Recipe – Creamy, Flavorful, and So Easy to Make!

There’s something magical about a bowl of Chicken Pasta—comforting, creamy, and bursting with flavor! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this pasta recipe has you covered. Juicy, seasoned chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in one irresistible meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Rich & Creamy – A velvety, flavor-packed sauce coats every bite.
• Customizable – Use your favorite pasta and add veggies or extra protein.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for family dinners or date nights.

What Does Chicken Pasta Taste Like?

This Chicken Pasta is ultra-creamy with a hint of garlic, parmesan, and Italian herbs. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the pasta is perfectly coated in a rich sauce that balances cheesy, buttery, and slightly tangy flavors. It’s the ultimate comfort food!

Health Benefits of Chicken Pasta

While this dish is indulgent, it also has some great benefits:

• Protein-Packed – Chicken helps with muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
• Good Source of Carbs – Pasta provides energy and fiber (especially whole wheat options).
• Calcium-Rich – Cheese and cream add a boost of calcium for bone health.
• Customizable for a Lighter Version – Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or half-and-half.

Ingredients for Chicken Pasta

The Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into strips
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

The Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt

The Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Essential Tools for Making Chicken Pasta

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Fine grater for Parmesan cheese
• Sharp knife for cutting chicken

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

• Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat for a healthier option.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Protein Boost: Toss in shrimp or crispy bacon.

How to Make Chicken Pasta – Step by Step

S1: Cook the Chicken

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

S2: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and pasta.
2. Cook until al dente (follow package instructions). Drain and set aside.

S3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
3. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

S4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
2. Stir in cherry tomatoes if using. Let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Chicken Pasta

• Chicken Biryani – A flavorful rice dish to complement your meal.
• Garlic Bread – The perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad – A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness.
• Chicken Tikka Masala – Another incredible chicken dish to try!
• Vanilla Bean Frappuccino – A delicious sweet treat to enjoy after your meal!

Tips for the Best Chicken Pasta

• Don’t overcook the pasta – It should be al dente for the best texture.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts better and enhances the flavor.
• Add extra liquid if needed – The sauce thickens as it cools, so stir in a splash of milk or broth before serving.
• Slice chicken thinly – It cooks faster and stays juicy.

How to Store & Reheat Chicken Pasta

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: The sauce may separate when frozen, but you can store it for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the pasta and chicken separately, then prepare the sauce when ready to serve.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best because they hold onto the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this without cream?

Yes! Use a mix of milk and flour or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.

Conclusion – The Ultimate Comfort Food!

This Chicken Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions! It’s so easy to make and will quickly become a family favorite.

I’d love to see your version! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, and tag me on Pinterest: The Kitchen Joyy! 🍝✨