If you’re looking for a delicious meal that’s both simple and satisfying, you absolutely can’t go wrong with chicken pasta recipes! This is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is super easy to whip up, making it perfect for beginners. Trust me, there’s nothing like the smell of sautéing chicken and garlic wafting through your kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit any taste while being quick enough for a weeknight dinner. With just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness that your whole family will love. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for this simple chicken pasta recipe:

• 2 cups of pasta – I love using penne or fusilli, but any pasta you have on hand will work!
• 1 pound of chicken breast, diced – Make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and quickly.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil – This will give your chicken a nice golden color and add flavor.
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced – Fresh garlic makes all the difference; it’ll fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma!
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved – Sweet and juicy, these will add a burst of flavor to your dish.
• 1 cup of spinach – Fresh spinach wilts down nicely and adds a pop of color and nutrition.
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning – A must-have for that classic Italian flavor. You can also use dried basil or oregano if you prefer!
• Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go to make sure you’re seasoning just right.
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving – I can’t resist a generous sprinkle of this on top—it takes everything to the next level!

How to Prepare Chicken Pasta Recipes

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together and create something delicious! Don’t worry, this process is super straightforward and totally beginner-friendly. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, let’s cook our pasta! Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt (this helps flavor the pasta!). Toss in your 2 cups of pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente—meaning it should still have a slight bite. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. You want it ready to mix in later!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Next, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), add your diced chicken. Cook it for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into a piece—it should be white all the way through! This step is vital because perfectly sautéed chicken adds such great flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Here comes the magic! After the chicken is cooked, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Toss it in and cook for just one minute, stirring constantly. You want to be careful here—garlic can burn quickly, and we don’t want that! Just until it’s fragrant and slightly golden is perfect.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables

Now, let’s make this dish colorful and nutritious! Add in the halved cherry tomatoes and the cup of spinach. Cook everything together for about 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down. The tomatoes will also get a bit soft and juicy, adding wonderful flavor to the mix.

Step 5: Mix in Seasonings

Time to season! Sprinkle in your teaspoon of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial because it brings all those delicious flavors together. Give everything a good stir and let it cook for another minute to let the seasonings meld.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Now for the grand finale! Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet and gently toss everything together so the pasta is well-coated in all those tasty juices and veggies. This is where the magic happens, and you’ll see the colors and textures come together beautifully!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

All done! Serve your chicken pasta hot, and don’t forget to top it off with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Trust me, that cheesy goodness takes this dish to the next level! Grab a fork, dig in, and enjoy every bite of this comforting, homemade meal.

Nutritional Information

It’s always good to know what you’re fueling your body with! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for this chicken pasta recipe. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this as a general guide:

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 400
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 30g

Remember, the beauty of cooking at home is that you can adjust ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs! Enjoy your delicious creation knowing exactly what’s in it.

Tips for Success

Getting the most out of your chicken pasta recipe is all about a few simple tips! I’ve learned these through my own kitchen adventures, and they’ve made all the difference. Here’s what I recommend to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

• Check the Chicken Doneness: Always make sure your chicken is fully cooked! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just cut a piece in half—there shouldn’t be any pink inside.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! If you find it needs a bit more flavor, add a pinch more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning. Everyone’s taste is different, so make it yours!
• Add Favorite Vegetables: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies! Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli can add great flavors and textures. Just remember to adjust cooking times so everything cooks evenly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and veggies. They really elevate the dish and bring out the best flavors. Plus, the aroma while cooking is just divine!
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta! Cooking it until it’s al dente ensures it won’t get mushy when mixed with the other ingredients. A quick taste test is always a good idea!
• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top not only enhances the dish but also adds a lovely finishing touch. You can even add a little fresh basil or parsley for extra color and flavor!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious chicken pasta that impresses everyone at the table. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of chicken pasta recipes is their incredible versatility! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:

• Change the Protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try substituting with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
• Different Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like fresh basil, parsley, or thyme. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat—it really kicks up the flavor!
• Mix Up the Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in seasonal veggies! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even asparagus can add a delightful crunch and color to your dish. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Add a Creamy Twist: For a richer dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese just before serving. It creates a lovely creamy sauce that clings to the pasta!
• Try Different Pasta Types: While I love penne and fusilli, you can use spaghetti, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Each shape adds its own unique touch to the dish!
• Incorporate a Sauce: Want to change it up? Add a jar of your favorite marinara or pesto sauce instead of just seasoning. This can transform the dish into a totally different flavor experience!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature chicken pasta recipe. The sky’s the limit, and I can’t wait for you to discover your favorites!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers are a wonderful perk of this chicken pasta recipe, and storing them properly means you can enjoy them later without losing any flavor! Here’s how to keep your delicious meal fresh:

• Storage: Allow your chicken pasta to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container—this helps keep it fresh and prevents any odors from your fridge from creeping in.
• Refrigeration: You can store your chicken pasta in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you know when it was made!
• Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pasta! Use a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, and try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze:

• Microwave: Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a paper towel or a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture, and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until it’s heated through.
• Stovetop: For the best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help rehydrate the pasta as it warms up. Stir occasionally until everything is heated evenly.
• Oven: You can also reheat in the oven! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the comforting flavors of your chicken pasta recipe even days later! Enjoy every bite, whether fresh or reheated.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen chicken works just fine, but make sure to thaw it completely before dicing and cooking. If you’re in a rush, you can also cook it straight from frozen, just be prepared to adjust the cooking time a bit longer until it’s fully cooked.

What type of pasta is best for chicken pasta recipes?
You can use any pasta you love! I personally enjoy penne or fusilli because they hold the sauce and flavors beautifully. But feel free to get creative with spaghetti, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I recommend cooking the pasta and chicken separately, then combining them just before serving. This way, the pasta won’t get mushy, and you’ll have a fresh-tasting meal ready to go!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
No problem! Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of delicious options out there that mimic the texture and taste of traditional pasta, so you won’t miss a beat!

Can I add more vegetables to the chicken pasta?
Definitely! This recipe is super versatile, so go wild with your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli would be fantastic additions. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything cooks perfectly!

Chicken Pasta Recipes: 7 Steps to a Delicious Dinner

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A simple and delicious chicken pasta recipe that’s perfect for beginners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups of pasta
• 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup of spinach
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach to the skillet and cook until the spinach wilts.
6. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

• Make sure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken pasta recipes, easy chicken pasta, beginner pasta recipe