Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight meal.
- Rich and Flavorful: The creamy sauce, seasoned chicken, and fresh veggies create a delightful harmony of flavors.
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will adore this pasta dish, making it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, swap out proteins, or use gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this creamy chicken pasta dish:
- 12 oz pasta shells: Any short pasta like penne or rigatoni can be substituted.
- 2 chicken breasts, diced: Boneless, skinless chicken works best for quick cooking.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds a nutritious and vibrant touch to the dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juicy sweetness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base for the rich and creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses the sauce with savory, cheesy goodness.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the flavor with its aromatic, savory notes.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to cook the chicken and sauté the garlic.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the dish perfectly.
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these straightforward steps to create your creamy chicken pasta masterpiece:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta, set it aside, and save a bit of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil is heating, season the diced chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften and release some of their juices, approximately 2–3 minutes.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. This should take about 3–5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Spinach and Chicken
Stir the fresh spinach into the skillet, letting it wilt into the sauce. Once the spinach is wilted, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. Allow the chicken to warm through for a minute or two.
6. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing them with the creamy chicken mixture until everything is well combined. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the creamy chicken pasta to serving bowls or plates. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, or even a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish!
Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate your Parmesan from a block for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook it just until it’s done to keep it tender and juicy.
- Save Pasta Water: The starchy water can help loosen the sauce and make it cling to the pasta better.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
Customizing This Recipe
One of the best parts about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas for making it your own:
- Swap Proteins: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken for a twist.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
While this creamy chicken pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
Can I Freeze Creamy Chicken Pasta?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the cream-based sauce can separate upon thawing and reheating, altering the texture. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with a glass of white wine for a more elegant dining experience.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (serves 4):
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
Conclusion: A Comforting Classic
This creamy chicken pasta recipe is everything you could want in a meal—comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Enjoy!
Print
Delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner
Ingredients
– 12 oz pasta shells, cooked
– 2 chicken breasts, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, letting it simmer gently until the sauce thickens.
4. Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
5. Toss the cooked pasta shells with the creamy chicken mixture until evenly coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.