Chicken Pasta Recipe

Looking for a dinner that feels indulgent but is ready in under 30 minutes? This creamy chicken pasta recipe is your go-to for weeknight comfort food. With juicy, seasoned chicken and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce, it’s the perfect blend of cozy and satisfying. Even better? It’s a one-pan wonder that pairs beautifully with salad or garlic bread.

Recipe Card

Ingredients Of Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ripe red chili peppers, finely chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup baby spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
Fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish

Why You Will Love Chicken Pasta Recipe

This chicken pasta recipe is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. It features juicy, flavorful chicken and a rich, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite of tender pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this dish comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs. One bite and it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner menu!

Preparation Process Of Chicken Pasta Recipe

Preparing this chicken pasta is simple and stress-free, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Start by cooking your pasta until al dente, then set it aside. While the pasta cooks, sauté seasoned chicken pieces until golden and cooked through. In the same pan, build a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce using butter, garlic, heavy cream, and cheese, stirring until smooth and flavorful. Combine the pasta and chicken with the sauce, letting it all simmer together so every bite is perfectly coated. From prep to plate, this meal comes together in about 30 minutes.

Step By Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sauté until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add garlic. Cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add in the drained pasta and toss to coat. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, if using. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve: Plate the creamy chicken pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

How to Serve?

Serve with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.
Drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
Add red pepper flakes for heat.
Great with white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.

Swap cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.

Add mushrooms or steamed broccoli for extra veggies.

Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Stir in pesto or fresh basil for added flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

Recipe Card

Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe That’s Perfect for Busy Nights

Recipe by Rachael rayCourse: Pasta Recipes

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

620

kcal

This creamy chicken pasta is a quick and comforting dinner idea featuring tender chicken, garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup baby spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
Fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish

Directions

Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sauté until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add garlic. Cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add in the drained pasta and toss to coat. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, if using. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve
Plate the creamy chicken pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Recipe Video

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente gives the best texture.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
Parmesan adds depth to the sauce, but you can also mix in mozzarella for a cheesier version.

FAQs

Yes! Leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken works great. Just add it in toward the end to warm it through without overcooking.

Penne, fettuccine, rotini, or bowties all work well. Choose one that holds sauce nicely.

Yes, you can make it a day ahead. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving something warm and satisfying, this creamy chicken pasta is sure to impress. It’s quick, customizable, and incredibly flavorful—making it one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe That’s Perfect for Busy Nights