Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe: How to Make an Easy Weeknight Dinner?
Looking for a comforting dinner that is simple to prepare and full of flavour? This creamy chicken pasta recipe is an excellent choice for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you want a restaurant-style meal at home. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, garlic, and a smooth cream sauce come together to create a satisfying dish that is easy to customise.
The best part? You can prepare it in around 30 minutes using everyday ingredients.
What Ingredients Do You Need for Creamy Chicken Pasta?
To make this easy chicken pasta recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 250 g pasta, such as penne or fettuccine
- 300 g boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 cup cooking cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water, if needed
You can also add mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or chilli flakes to personalise the dish.
How Do You Make Creamy Chicken Pasta at Home?
Step 1: Cook the pasta. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Stop when it is just al dente, then drain and reserve a little pasta water.
Step 2: Season and cook the chicken. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Transfer it to a plate.
Step 3: Prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about a minute. Pour in the cooking cream and let it simmer gently. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine everything. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your preferred consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and serve. Finish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy.
What Are the Best Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Pasta?
For the best results, avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the sauce. Grate your Parmesan fresh for a smoother finish, and keep the heat low after adding the cream to help prevent the sauce from separating.
Want to experiment with other meals? Explore our creamy pasta for another comforting option, or try our stir-fry noodles for a different take on a quick noodle dish. You can also discover our stir-fry spaghetti for another flavourful pasta-inspired meal.
Can You Customise This Easy Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Add vegetables for extra colour, use chicken thighs for a richer flavour, or introduce a little paprika and chilli for gentle heat. You can also substitute another pasta shape based on what you have available.
This creamy chicken pasta is a versatile meal that brings comfort and convenience to your table. With a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can prepare a delicious dinner that everyone can enjoy.
