You guys are going to LOVE this Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe. It’s an easy-to-make comfort food, with the most insanely delicious creamy garlic parmesan sauce coating every inch of perfectly cooked pasta and juicy chicken. Honestly, what’s not to love?!
I love this recipe because you can have a restaurant-quality meal in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, easy, and totally satisfying. But this isn’t your average weeknight meal; it’s definitely fancy enough to impress guests, too!
The magic is in the sauce. It’s truly next level, with a perfect balance of garlic, parmesan, and cream. It’s so versatile that you can keep it classic and simple or add in your favorite ingredients, like broccoli, fresh spinach, or mushrooms. Let me show you how to make this creamy deliciousness in just a few easy steps!
Why you will love this Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe…
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup parmesan cheese , grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- Fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before placing in the pan. Cook until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F), about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and lemon zest, letting the sauce thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions
🧑🍳 Expert Tips
Substitutions and Variations
Storage Suggestions
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
- This dish can also be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Creamy Chicken Pasta FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape works well with this sauce. Try penne, fettuccine, or even bow-tie pasta.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms are great additions.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
To lighten it up, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?
Asiago, Grana Padano, or Pecorino Romano cheeses are great substitutes for a similar sharp and salty flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken beforehand. Store them separately from the pasta and combine them just before serving. This helps to keep the pasta from becoming too soft.
Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking!
