Chicken Pasta
Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish featuring juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes! Try it today and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-style meal at home.
Calories: 550kcal
Ingredients
- For 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
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz 340g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For 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
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a 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.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt and pasta.
- Cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine Everything:
- Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes if using. Let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve & Garnish:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or substitute Greek yogurt for cream.
- To add extra veggies, toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.