There’s something comforting and irresistible about a white plate topped with pasta and chicken. The creamy, saucy pasta paired with juicy, tender chicken pieces makes it a restaurant-style meal you can easily make at home.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners, giving you a delicious homemade meal in under 30 minutes.
Table of Contents
Why This Dish is a Family Favorite
- It’s quick, creamy, and comforting.
- Kids love the cheesy pasta, while adults enjoy the rich flavors.
- You can customize the spice level and toppings easily.
When to Serve This Comfort Food
- Family dinner nights
- Date night at home
- Festive gatherings or potlucks
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make the perfect pasta and chicken recipe:
Pasta Choices
- Penne, Fusilli, or Spaghetti – These hold creamy sauces well.
- Whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Chicken Preparation
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips.
- Salt, black pepper, and paprika for seasoning.
- Olive oil or butter for searing.
Creamy Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Red chili flakes for a spicy kick
Kitchen Tools Required
- Non-stick pan or skillet for chicken and sauce.
- Large pot for boiling pasta.
- Strainer for draining pasta.
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to get a delicious, restaurant-style chicken pasta at home:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, boil water with 1 tbsp salt.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente (firm but tender).
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain the rest.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer on low heat for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything Together
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce.
- Toss everything together, adding a splash of pasta water if needed for creaminess.
- Serve on a white plate, top with parsley and chili flakes, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Pasta and Chicken
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Rest the chicken for a minute before slicing to keep it juicy.
Variations to Try
Want to add some creativity to this classic chicken pasta recipe?
Spicy Chicken Pasta
Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your sauce for extra heat.
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Swap cream for extra butter and minced garlic for a lighter, aromatic version.
Healthy Whole Wheat Pasta Option
Use whole wheat pasta and low-fat milk for a lighter, high-fiber option.
How to Serve for the Best Presentatio
Serve your creamy pasta and golden chicken on a plain white plate for that restaurant-style elegance. Sprinkle fresh parsley and cheese right before serving.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a pan with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
Nutritional Benefits
- High protein from chicken.
- Calcium from cheese and milk.
- Carbs for energy, perfect for dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding too much water to the sauce, which makes it thin.
- Skipping pasta water, which helps bind sauce to pasta.
- Overcooking chicken, which makes it dry.
Conclusion
A white plate topped with pasta and chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a comfort food classic that brings family and friends together. With this easy recipe, you can create a creamy, delicious dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for any occasion.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover grilled or roasted chicken works perfectly.
Q2: Can I make it without cream?
Use milk and a little flour to thicken the sauce instead.
Q3: Which pasta works best for creamy chicken pasta?
Penne, fusilli, and spaghetti are top choices.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach taste amazing in creamy chicken pasta.
Q5: How do I make it spicier?
Add red chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to your sauce.
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