If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and delicious meal, let me tell you, this chicken pasta recipe is a game-changer! Imagine tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that just clings to every bite. It’s the ultimate combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up on a weeknight or impress your guests at a dinner party! Trust me, once you try this chicken pasta recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for sautéing
- 3 cloves garlic, minced, to add flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream, for that rich and creamy sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated works best
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano, for a hint of earthiness
- Salt, to taste, don’t be shy!
- Pepper, to taste, freshly cracked is ideal
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish and a pop of color
How to Prepare Chicken Pasta Recipes
Cooking the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I always say, the water should taste like the ocean! Once it’s bubbling away, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite when you chew it. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for your sauce!
Sautéing the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—oh, the aroma is heavenly! Next, toss in the diced chicken. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. You want that chicken to be juicy and tender, so make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) according to USDA guidelines.
Creating the Sauce
Once the chicken is ready, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a luscious, creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens! Keep stirring until everything is well combined and smooth. Season it with salt and pepper to taste; this is the moment to adjust flavors to your liking.
Combining Ingredients
Now for the fun part! Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss it with the chicken and sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of that reserved pasta water—it’ll help everything blend beautifully and make it silky. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that dreamy sauce. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and get ready for compliments!
Tips for Success
To take your chicken pasta recipe to the next level, consider marinating the chicken in a mix of olive oil, herbs, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This adds an extra depth of flavor that’s simply divine! Don’t be afraid to switch up your pasta type—try farfalle or fusilli for a fun twist. And if you want to boost nutrition, toss in some fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the last minute of cooking. They’ll add color and a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Trust me, these small changes can make a big difference!
Variations of Chicken Pasta Recipes
One of the best things about chicken pasta recipes is how versatile they are! If you’re looking to switch things up, try using different herbs like basil or thyme for a fresh twist on flavor. You could even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick! If you’re not a fan of chicken or just want to mix it up, shrimp or sautéed mushrooms make excellent protein alternatives. For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of penne. Each change brings its own unique texture and taste, making this dish endlessly adaptable to your cravings!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for this chicken pasta recipe per serving: approximately 600 calories, 30g of fat, 35g of protein, and 60g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and cooking methods, so always adjust according to your needs!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store any leftover chicken pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Glass containers are great for this, as they keep the flavors locked in and are microwave-safe. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you notice it’s a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil to bring back that creamy texture. Enjoy every bite just like the first time!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before dicing and cooking. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking, so thawing is key.
What type of pasta works best for chicken pasta recipes?
Penne is fantastic, but you can also use fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. The key is to pick a shape that holds onto that creamy sauce well!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and toss in the pasta just before serving. This helps maintain the pasta’s texture and prevents it from getting mushy.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even chickpeas for protein. You’ll still get all that creamy goodness!
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce or finish with a drizzle of spicy olive oil. It adds a nice kick without overpowering the dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 40 minutes!
- Rich, creamy flavor that’s irresistible.
- Packed with protein from the chicken and cheese.
- Versatile and adaptable to suit your taste.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Chicken Pasta Recipes: 5 Simple Tips for Deliciousness
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A savory chicken pasta dish that combines tender chicken with al dente pasta in a rich sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Add oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate chicken in herbs before cooking.
- Experiment with different types of pasta for variety.
- Try adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken pasta recipes
