Creamy Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of herbs and chicken broth creates a flavorful base, while the addition of heavy cream brings a luscious richness that will please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delightful meal!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Steps: How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add the diced carrots and celery, stirring occasionally. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Peas
- Add the shredded cooked chicken and frozen peas to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
- Season the mixture with dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes. The sauce will begin to thicken.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If the mixture appears too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, if using, allowing it to melt and enhance the flavor of the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 43 g |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use different vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking.
Q2: What if I don’t have cooked chicken?
You can use raw chicken breast or thighs, cooking them in the skillet before adding the vegetables. Just ensure they are fully cooked before proceeding to the next steps.
Q3: Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Q4: Is this dish freezable?
While you can freeze the dish, the texture of the cream sauce may change upon thawing. It’s best to freeze it without the cream and add it after reheating.
Q5: Can I make it lighter?
To lighten the recipe, use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cream, or a plant-based milk alternative. You can also reduce the amount of oil and cheese for fewer calories.
Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.
- Seasoning: Taste your dish as you go and adjust the seasoning at each stage for the best flavor.
- Cream Consistency: For a lighter version, you can replace some of the heavy cream with chicken broth or a low-fat milk alternative.
- One-Pot Convenience: For an even easier clean-up, consider using a one-pot pasta method, where you cook the pasta directly in the sauce.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. By following this recipe, you can create a delicious, homemade meal that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different vegetables and flavors to make this dish your own. Enjoy the comforting taste of Creamy Chicken Pasta tonight!