When it comes to comfort food, creamy chicken pasta is a classic favorite that never disappoints. This indulgent dish combines tender chicken pieces with al dente pasta, all coated in a rich and velvety cream sauce. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight meal or planning a special dinner, creamy chicken pasta is a versatile option that pleases everyone’s taste buds.
Ingredients
To prepare creamy chicken pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Pasta:
– 1 pound of pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
– Salt for seasoning the pasta water
For the Chicken:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt, pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil for cooking
For the Cream Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Steps
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the cream sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variations
There are endless ways to customize your creamy chicken pasta to suit your preferences. Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tanginess or incorporating spinach for a pop of color and nutrients. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar, to create a unique flavor profile.
Tips
– To prevent the cream sauce from curdling, make sure to simmer it gently and avoid boiling it.
– For added depth of flavor, you can include herbs like thyme or basil in the sauce.
– Leftover creamy chicken pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken pasta is a timeless dish that never fails to satisfy cravings for a hearty and comforting meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this decadent pasta dish in no time. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your spin on it with creative variations, creamy chicken pasta is sure to become a beloved go-to option for any occasion.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape for creamy chicken pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
While creamy chicken pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving to maintain the optimal texture and flavor.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
For a lighter version of creamy chicken pasta, you can use half-and-half or milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
Creamy Chicken Pasta
A classic and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken pieces with al dente pasta, all coated in a rich and velvety cream sauce. Creamy chicken pasta is a versatile option that pleases everyone’s taste buds, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
- Salt
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
-
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
-
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
-
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
-
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the cream sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly.
-
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
