There’s something about a big bowl of creamy pasta that feels like pure comfort food. Add in tender chicken, a rainbow of fresh vegetables, garlic, and a luxurious cream sauce, and you’ve got yourself a dish that is both indulgent and wholesome. This Chicken and Vegetable Creamy Pasta is the kind of recipe that can brighten up a weeknight dinner, impress guests at a casual gathering, or even serve as the perfect comfort meal after a long day. It’s packed with protein from chicken, nutrients from vegetables, and the richness of parmesan cheese to tie it all together. What I love about this dish is its balance—you get indulgence without it being too heavy, and the freshness of the vegetables keeps it lively.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 1.1 lb (500 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more if needed)

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder

• 8.8 oz (250 g) pasta of choice (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best)

• 1 fresh red onion, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 fresh orange bell pepper, diced

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

• 3.5 oz (100 g) parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes depending on the type. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Prepare the Chicken

   • Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced fresh garlic and let it sizzle for about 1 minute until fragrant.

   • Add the chicken breast pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables

   • In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add diced red onion and celery, sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

   • Add bell pepper and broccoli florets. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender but still vibrant, about 5–6 minutes.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

   • Pour in the cream, stir well, and let it gently simmer for 3–4 minutes. Add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

5. Combine Everything

   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stir into the creamy sauce and vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Finish and Serve

   • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.

   • Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrient Information (per serving, approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: 520

• Protein: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 4g

• Calcium: 220mg

• Vitamin C: 35% DV

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines everything you want in one meal—comfort, nutrition, and flavor. The creamy parmesan sauce wraps around every bite, while the chicken gives it a hearty element and the vegetables add freshness and crunch. It’s versatile enough for both weeknight family dinners and weekend entertaining. Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal after the pasta is boiled, so cleanup is minimal.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Creamy chicken pasta is a dish that pulls inspiration from classic Italian cooking but with a modern twist of mixing in more vegetables for a complete meal. Think of it as a cross between Alfredo pasta and a rustic Mediterranean chicken-and-veg skillet. The use of garlic, cream, and parmesan is timeless in Italian kitchens, while the colorful vegetables give it a lighter, fresher personality.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Chicken breast: Lean, high in protein, and tender when cooked properly.

• Broccoli: Adds vitamins, fiber, and a lovely crunch.

• Paprika: Brings a gentle smokiness that elevates the chicken.

• Parmesan cheese: The star of the sauce, providing a nutty richness.

• Cream: The backbone of the luscious sauce that binds everything together.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and warm it gently on the stove over medium heat. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir halfway through to keep the sauce creamy. Freezing isn’t recommended because cream-based sauces can split when thawed.

Common Variations to Try

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.

• Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.

• Spicy Kick: Toss in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.

• Cheese Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or Gruyère for an even cheesier sauce.

• Lighter Option: Substitute half the cream with milk or use Greek yogurt for creaminess with fewer calories.

Pairing Recommendations

This pasta pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil.

• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.

• A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for wine lovers.

• Sparkling water with lemon if you prefer something refreshing and light.

Health Benefits

Though it’s indulgent, this recipe has plenty of health perks. Chicken provides lean protein to support muscle health. Broccoli and bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins A and C. Parmesan cheese brings calcium and healthy fats. Even though cream adds richness, when balanced with vegetables and lean protein, it makes for a satisfying meal that nourishes your body while treating your taste buds.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Vegetable Creamy Pasta is more than just a dinner recipe—it’s comfort and nutrition wrapped into one delicious dish. It’s hearty yet balanced, creamy yet fresh, indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just want to spoil yourself with a cozy meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and absolutely irresistible flavor, it’s one you’ll want to add to your regular rotation.