Pasta with Chicken in Cream Sauce is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a favorite for dinner any night of the week. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in some delicious comfort food, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive in and see how you can create this delightful meal in your own kitchen.
What You’ll Need for Pasta with Chicken in Cream Sauce
To whip up this delicious pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 200 g fettuccine (or other pasta)
- 2 chicken breasts
- 6 champignons (or other mushrooms)
- 1 onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Butter (for frying)
- ½ tablespoon chopped garlic
- 350 ml cream (min. 30 percent fat)
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Pasta with Chicken in Cream Sauce Recipe
Ready to bring this delicious dish to life? Follow these simple steps:
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them generously with salt and pepper.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
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Boil the Pasta: In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta but do not rinse it. This helps the sauce stick better.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Slice the onion and mushrooms thinly. In the same pan you used for the chicken, melt a little butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and mushrooms, sautéing until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are golden brown.
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Make the Sauce: Add the chopped garlic to the pan, cooking for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the cream and milk. Stir well, allowing it to gently bubble over low heat.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the sauce is bubbling, add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Stir to combine everything, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
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Finish the Dish: Let the dish simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. If you like, sprinkle in the parmesan cheese at this stage, mixing until melted and creamy.
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Serve: Plate your pasta and sauce mixture, and for an extra touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley and more Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Pasta with Chicken in Cream Sauce
The best way to serve this hearty dish is to plate it generously, allowing the creamy sauce to envelop each piece of pasta and chicken. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Pair it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate meal experience. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water works beautifully alongside this creamy delight.
Expert Tips for Pasta with Chicken in Cream Sauce
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use fresh, quality ingredients, especially the cream and parmesan, to achieve a richer flavor in your sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To ensure perfect pasta, cook it al dente. This will help maintain the texture when it’s tossed with the sauce.
- Add Extras: Feel free to mix in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
Pasta with Chicken in Cream Sauce FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is a great choice, any pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti will work well with the creamy sauce.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just cook the pasta fresh right before serving to ensure it’s at its best!
3. What can I use instead of cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try using half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute, but keep in mind this may change the overall flavor and texture.
This Pasta with Chicken in Cream Sauce is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. It combines simplicity with rich flavors and is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing this comforting dish!