Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta for Beginners

Step into comfort food heaven with this Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Inspired by Italian cuisine, this dish is a staple in my household and brings back memories of cozy family dinners around the table.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing into strips.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using.
5. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Tip: For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Variation: Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the sauce for added texture and flavor.
• Substitution: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy chicken pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. A glass of chilled white wine, like Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

This Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. I invite you to try this recipe and share your results in the comments below. Feel free to ask any questions – I’m here to help!