pasta with chicken recipe
The Best pasta with chicken recipe
I’ve been making this pasta with chicken recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that just never gets old. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but still feels special enough for when we have company over. My kids request it all the time—even my picky eater will clean his plate without complaint. The best part? It’s packed with protein from the chicken and has enough veggies snuck in that I don’t feel guilty about serving it regularly.
What I love most about this recipe is how balanced it is. The chicken keeps it hearty and satisfying, while the whole wheat pasta adds fiber. I usually toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients, and the light garlic-lemon sauce ties everything together without being too heavy. It’s one of those meals that leaves everyone full but not sluggish, which is perfect for busy evenings when we need to keep moving.
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Another reason this dish is a staple in our house is how easy it is to customize. If I’m in a hurry, I’ll use rotisserie chicken to save time. If I want to make it a little fancier, I’ll add sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs. It’s versatile, quick, and always a hit—exactly the kind of recipe every home cook needs in their rotation.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal with family.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced into thin strips
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
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1 Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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2 Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
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3 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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4 In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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5 Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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6 Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out.
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7 Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
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8 Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using) and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Works
This pasta with chicken recipe is one of those simple, reliable dishes that always delivers—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a bigger family gathering. The flavors are mild enough for picky eaters but still satisfying for adults, and it’s easy to scale up if you’re feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s quick to make, uses basic ingredients, and leaves everyone happy, which is really all you need in a go-to meal.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
1. Can I use any type of pasta for this chicken pasta recipe?
Yes, you can use almost any type of pasta, but shapes like penne, fettuccine, or farfalle work best as they hold the sauce well. Short pasta like penne or rotini is great for chunky sauces, while long pasta like spaghetti or linguine pairs well with creamy or light sauces.
2. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while cooking?
To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Cook the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, or buttermilk for 30 minutes before cooking to add moisture and flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and chicken separately ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a pan with a little broth or sauce, then toss it with freshly cooked or reheated pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.
4. What can I substitute for heavy cream in a creamy chicken pasta recipe?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut milk. For a dairy-free alternative, use cashew cream or a blend of silken tofu and plant-based milk. Keep in mind that the texture and richness may vary slightly.
5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or milk to the pasta to restore moisture, then warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid overcooking to prevent the pasta from becoming dry.
