When it comes to comfort food, creamy chicken pasta is a classic favorite that never fails to satisfy. This indulgent dish combines tender chicken pieces with rich and velvety pasta coated in a luscious creamy sauce. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, creamy chicken pasta is a versatile option that is sure to please everyone’s taste buds.
Ingredients
To make creamy chicken pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Pasta:
– 1 pound of pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
– Salt for seasoning
For the Chicken:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper for seasoning
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Freshly ground black pepper
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 breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and let them rest before slicing into strips.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing everything together until well coated. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Variations
There are endless variations you can try with creamy chicken pasta to suit your preferences. You can add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicy kick, you can sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. Experiment with different types of cheese or herbs to create your unique twist on this classic dish.
Tips
– To prevent the creamy sauce from becoming too thick, you can add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
– For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce may be less rich.
– Make sure not to overcook the chicken breasts to keep them juicy and tender in the final dish.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of chicken with the luxuriousness of a creamy sauce. Whether you are cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is both satisfying and comforting. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delicious plate of creamy chicken pasta in no time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta of your choice, such as spaghetti, linguine, or even gnocchi, to make creamy chicken pasta.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover creamy chicken pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the creaminess.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components of creamy chicken pasta ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Creamy chicken pasta is a classic favorite that combines tender chicken pieces with rich and velvety pasta coated in a luscious creamy sauce. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this versatile option is sure to please everyone’s taste buds.
Ingredients
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1 pound pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
-
Salt
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons butter
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
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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 breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let them rest before slicing into strips.
-
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
-
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
-
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing everything together until well coated. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
