Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightfully comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream, and al dente pasta into one heavenly meal. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a small gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. With its simple yet delicious flavors, Creamy Chicken Pasta will soon become a go-to favorite for both you and your loved ones.
What Goes into This Creamy Chicken Pasta
To create this creamy and savory dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 300 g pasta (shells or penne) / 10.5 oz pasta (shells or penne)
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into small pieces / 2 chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter / 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped / 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 250 ml chicken broth (low sodium) / 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 250 ml heavy cream / 1 cup heavy cream
- 50 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese / 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) / 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste / Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) / Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook Garlic: In the same pan, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the broth. Let it cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine with Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the pan. Stir well to combine everything.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the cayenne pepper and mix well.
- Garnish: Finally, top your dish with freshly chopped parsley for decoration and added freshness.
Serve & Enjoy Creamy Chicken Pasta
Serving Creamy Chicken Pasta can be as simple or elegant as you like. For a casual family meal, serve the pasta directly from the pan to bowls at the table. If you’re feeling fancy, plate the dish in wide, shallow bowls and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and parsley on top for that restaurant-style touch.
Pair this delightful dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce. A nice glass of lemonade or white wine would also complement the meal perfectly!
Helpful Tricks for Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. They can easily be sautéed along with the garlic.
- Pasta Choices: While shells and penne work wonderfully, you could also use fettuccine or even zucchini noodles for a fun twist.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.
Creamy Chicken Pasta FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
2. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add more cayenne pepper or include other spices like red pepper flakes to amp up the heat!
With its luscious sauce and satisfying components, Creamy Chicken Pasta is sure to become a beloved dish in your home. Ready to whip it up? Enjoy every creamy bite!