Oh, let me tell you about my all-time favorite dish: chicken pasta creamy! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only easy to whip up but also unbelievably delicious. I mean, who doesn’t love a creamy pasta that hugs every noodle like a warm blanket? My kids practically beg for it weekly! The combination of tender chicken, rich cream, and a sprinkle of Parmesan creates a satisfying meal that makes everyone happy. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, which is perfect for those busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this comforting bowl of goodness, it’ll become a beloved go-to in your home too. So, let’s dive into this creamy delight; you won’t regret it!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making your chicken pasta creamy dish a success! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups penne pasta: This shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding some flavor.
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced: Fresh, boneless chicken gives the dish a juicy texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a lovely aroma and depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy!
- 1 cup chicken broth: It enhances the flavor and adds moisture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this brings everything together with a cheesy goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget these for that perfect seasoning!
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A pop of color and freshness on top!
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be ready to create a deliciously creamy chicken pasta dish that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Chicken Pasta Creamy
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients lined up, let’s get cooking! This chicken pasta creamy dish comes together in no time, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in your own kitchen. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First, let’s get that pasta cooking! Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt—this helps flavor the pasta. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 2 cups of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next up, let’s cook the chicken! In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Spread it out in a single layer for even cooking. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken—it should be juicy and tender, not dry! Once it’s nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Now, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In the same skillet, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant—oh, the smell is divine! Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and then gradually stir in your 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens a bit. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, let’s bring it all together! Add the drained pasta back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is fully coated in that luscious sauce. If it looks a little thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color! Enjoy your homemade chicken pasta creamy—it’s sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This *chicken pasta creamy* dish has so many wonderful benefits that make it a must-try in your kitchen! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
- Creamy Texture: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta, making each bite an indulgent experience.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, chicken, and cheese makes for a flavorful dish that’s satisfying and comforting. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
- Satisfying: This meal is hearty and filling, making it a great option for the whole family. You won’t be left feeling hungry after a bowl of this goodness!
Once you try this recipe, I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your household too!
Tips for Success
To make sure your chicken pasta creamy turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips that will help you avoid common mistakes:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken as it cooks. If you leave it in the skillet too long, it can dry out. Aim for a nice golden brown color, and remember, it’ll continue to cook a bit even after you take it off the heat!
- Salt Your Pasta Water: Adding salt to the boiling water is a game-changer! It flavors the pasta from the inside out, making it way more delicious. So don’t skip this step!
- Stir the Sauce Constantly: When you’re melting in the Parmesan cheese, give it a good stir to prevent it from clumping. You want that creamy, smooth sauce to coat every piece of pasta perfectly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and real Parmesan will elevate your dish immensely. They bring out the best flavors and make your creamy sauce shine!
- Adjust the Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little bit of the reserved pasta water. It’ll help loosen it up while adding extra starch for creaminess.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Don’t be shy with it!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious dish. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of fun ways to switch up your chicken pasta creamy dish! Here are some tasty ideas to make it your own:
- Add Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for an extra boost of color and nutrition. You can sauté them with the garlic for added flavor or mix them in right before serving for a nice crunch!
- Try Different Cheeses: While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to experiment! Creamy mozzarella or tangy goat cheese can add a whole new layer of flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount to keep that creamy texture.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss in some diced jalapeños. It’s a great way to give your dish a kick!
- Use Different Pasta Shapes: Penne is fantastic, but don’t hesitate to try other shapes like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
These variations let you customize your dish to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of your delicious chicken pasta creamy, you’ll want to store them properly to keep that wonderful flavor intact! Here’s how to do it:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture buildup that can make your dish soggy. Your creamy chicken pasta will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days!
- Freezing Option: If you want to save it for a later date, you can freeze the pasta! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 months for optimal taste. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Now, let’s talk reheating!
- Microwave: This is the quickest method! Place your portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
- Stovetop: For the best results, reheating on the stovetop is the way to go. Just place your leftover pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help revive that creamy texture. Stir gently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your creamy chicken pasta deliciously even days later!
Nutritional Information
Wondering what’s in your delicious bowl of chicken pasta creamy? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind that these are estimates, so your actual values may vary slightly based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
This creamy delight packs a satisfying punch while still being a treat you can feel good about serving. Enjoy every bite!
Cooking Equipment Needed
Before you dive into making your delicious chicken pasta creamy, let’s make sure you have all the essential tools at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large Pot: For boiling the penne pasta. Make sure it’s big enough to hold plenty of water!
- Colander: To drain the pasta once it’s cooked. A must-have for any pasta dish!
- Large Skillet: This is where all the magic happens! A non-stick skillet works great to prevent sticking.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the chicken and sauce. It’s gentle on your skillet and perfect for mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of ingredients—accuracy is key!
- Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the chicken and mincing the garlic. A sharp knife makes the job easier!
- Serving Dish or Bowls: To serve your delicious creation. You’ll want something pretty to show off your hard work!
Having these tools ready will help your cooking experience go smoothly, so let’s get started on that creamy pasta magic!
Leave a Comment
I’d love to hear from you! What did you think of the chicken pasta creamy recipe? Did you try any fun variations or tweaks? Feel free to share your thoughts, questions, or any tips you discovered along the way. Your feedback means the world to me, and I can’t wait to read your comments!
Chicken Pasta Creamy Delight in 30 Minutes for All!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy chicken pasta dish that is easy to make and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, mixing well to coat with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy.
- Stir the pasta well to avoid sticking.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken pasta creamy
