Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall in love at first bite with this Creamy Chicken Pasta! With juicy, golden-seared chicken, a lush sauce brimming with Parmesan and Romano, and the irresistible aroma of garlic and Italian herbs, this dish feels like a cozy embrace after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for family or looking to impress friends, it brings together comfort and elegance in every twirl of the fork. Let’s take your pasta night to a whole new level!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Chicken Pasta is in its straightforward ingredients—each one pulls its weight to unlock big flavors, creamy textures, and eye-catching color. Gather these kitchen staples, and you’re halfway to a memorable meal!

• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Lean, juicy protein that becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when seared.
• Salt and pepper: The classic duo that enhances every other ingredient.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that gives the chicken an instant upgrade.
• Flour: Used for dredging the chicken and in the sauce—it ensures both a golden crust and a silky sauce.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and encourages perfect browning on the chicken.
• Dry white wine: Adds depth and a touch of brightness—use what you’d enjoy sipping!
• Butter: Brings buttery silkiness to your sauce.
• Garlic: Three cloves for bold, aromatic flavor—don’t skimp!
• Half and half: The key to that irresistible creamy texture without being too heavy.
• Chicken broth: Layers in savory, chicken-forward notes.
• Chicken bouillon cube: For a depth of flavor you can’t quite put your finger on—but you’ll miss it if it’s absent.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): Salty, nutty, and melts perfectly into the sauce.
• Romano cheese (grated): Adds a sharper bite—use just Parmesan if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Pasta (half a pound, any kind): Use your favorite shape—penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti.
• Pasta water (reserved): Starchy gold for adjusting sauce consistency and silkiness.
• Lemon (optional): A little squeeze brightens the entire dish—trust me, it’s a finishing touch worth trying.
• Onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley (all dried): Each one adds subtle character, rounding out the sauce.
• Smoked paprika: Just a hint adds warmth and color to the dish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Get Prepped and Organized

Let’s set ourselves up for a smooth experience! Whisk together your half and half, chicken broth, and all the dried seasonings in a large measuring cup with a spout, so they’re ready to pour later. Take a few minutes to measure out the rest of your ingredients, and pop a measuring cup into your colander as a reminder to reserve some of that magical pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice your chicken breast in half lengthwise to create a few thinner cutlets, then place them between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to a uniform, 1-inch thickness. Dab dry and generously season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle flour on both sides and pat it in; this will help create a golden crust and keep the chicken from sticking in the skillet.

Step 3: Sizzle Away!

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Slide in your prepared chicken and let it sear undisturbed, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and deliciously fragrant. Rest the chicken for 10 minutes, then slice into strips—these juicy bites will be perfect in every forkful of Creamy Chicken Pasta.

Step 4: Build That Dreamy Sauce

Meanwhile, start boiling your pasta water. Back in the skillet (without cleaning it!), pour in the wine and lower the heat to medium. Gently scrape up all those flavorful brown bits, letting the wine bubble and reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring just until the garlic is aromatic, then sprinkle in the flour for a quick 2-minute cook until there’s no raw flour smell left.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Base

Now, slowly add in your half and half/broth mixture. Pour it bit by bit, stirring constantly to form a smooth, creamy base and avoiding lumps. Toss in your half bouillon cube, bring everything to a gentle bubble, then partially cover and let it gently thicken over low heat while you turn your focus to the pasta.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

Generously salt your boiling water and add your pasta, cooking just until al dente—this keeps your noodles toothsome and ready to soak up that luscious sauce. Stir occasionally so they don’t clump, then drain and remember to scoop out a cup of pasta water for later sauce adjustments.

Step 7: Cheese, Pasta, and Chicken—Together!

Gradually sprinkle the Parmesan and Romano cheeses into your silky sauce, gently stirring until melted and smooth. Add your drained pasta and toss to combine, followed by the sliced chicken (and any delicious juices from the resting plate). If the sauce feels too thick, splash in reserved pasta water until it’s just how you like it—creamy and thoroughly inviting.

Step 8: Finishing Touches

For the grand finale, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top (if desired), shower with parsley, and get ready to serve. That first forkful of Creamy Chicken Pasta will have everyone requesting seconds!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

The joy is in the details! Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and a pinch of parsley on top just before serving. For a bolder presentation and fresh punch, a final twist of black pepper and a few thin lemon slices make it pop. Don’t forget that optional squeeze of lemon—it takes the Creamy Chicken Pasta from comforting to totally crave-worthy.

Side Dishes

This rich, saucy pasta pairs best with simple sides. Try a crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette, some roasted broccoli, or juicy cherry tomatoes. And let’s be honest—a hunk of warm, crusty bread is the ultimate sidekick for mopping up every drop of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up dinner by serving Creamy Chicken Pasta in shallow bowls with a swirl of sauce and chicken beautifully fanned on top. For date nights, split between individual pasta plates and top with microgreens or fresh basil ribbons. If you’re feeling extra festive, serve the entire dish in a big skillet or Dutch oven family-style for everyone to dig in at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pasta dishes like this are fabulous the next day! Store any leftover Creamy Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon chilling, but that’s easily fixed when reheating.

Freezing

Want to freeze? Go right ahead! Portion individual servings into airtight freezer containers. Cream-based sauces can separate a bit, but a good stir and some added pasta water or milk during reheating work wonders. Aim to use within 2 months for peak flavor.

Reheating

For best results, warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low, stirring in a splash of reserved pasta water or milk until the sauce creamy-fies again. The microwave works, too—just heat in short bursts, stirring in between, so the sauce stays velvety and doesn’t overcook.

FAQs

Can I substitute the wine?

Yes! If you’d rather skip the wine, simply use extra chicken broth instead. The flavor will still be lovely and satisfying, just a little less bright—no worries at all.

What’s the best pasta shape for Creamy Chicken Pasta?

Honestly, most pasta shapes work beautifully here! Penne, fettuccine, and spaghetti are top picks because their surfaces catch every bit of the dreamy sauce. Use what you love or whatever you have on hand.

Can I use precooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely—this is a great shortcut for busy nights. Shred or slice the cooked chicken and toss it in at the very end, just until warmed through. The sauce will still wrap everything in that irresistible creamy hug.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can make a creamy pasta without dairy by swapping in unsweetened oat or almond milk and a couple teaspoons of cornstarch instead of flour, plus your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese. It’ll have a different flavor, but you’ll still get that craveable texture.

How can I brighten the flavors even more?

A generous squeeze of fresh lemon, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the whole dish. Don’t be afraid to tweak the garnish to match your mood or the season!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try Creamy Chicken Pasta in your own kitchen! It’s one of those foolproof, heartwarming dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Gather your ingredients and dive in—your next cozy, delicious dinner awaits!

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