Creamy Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

Make Creamy Chicken Pasta in just 25 minutes! A rich, garlicky, and creamy sauce paired with perfectly seasoned chicken and linguine for a comforting meal.

Creamy Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken breast, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic sauce. This dish is ideal for those busy nights when you need a delicious and filling meal in less than half an hour. The combination of well-seasoned chicken with a rich, creamy sauce makes it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or someone who is just starting out, this recipe is approachable and foolproof. If you are looking for other satisfying pasta dishes, you may also enjoy this Chicken Pasta, which provides a spicy twist on a creamy classic.

For a more cozy dinner idea, you might want to try our Chicken category. It’s another comforting option for a satisfying and delicious meal!

Key Ingredients

Below are the main ingredients needed to create the perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta:

• Linguine (8 oz): The long, thin noodles pair well with the creamy sauce, though spaghetti or fettuccine also work well.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): Used to dredge the chicken, giving it a golden-crisp exterior.
• Salt (3/4 tsp): For seasoning, divided use.
• Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds depth and a touch of spice.
• Garlic Powder (1/4 tsp): To enhance the garlic flavor in the dish.
• Smoked Paprika (1/4 heaping tsp): Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper (Pinch, optional): Provides a little heat if desired.
• Chicken Breast (1 lb, cut into 4 portions): Provides the protein base, seasoned and seared.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for searing the chicken and creating a flavor base for the sauce.
• Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness to the dish.
• Yellow Onion (1 cup, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Minced Garlic (2 tbsp): Essential for the creamy garlic sauce.
• Chicken Broth (1 1/3 cups): Helps create the sauce and adds savory depth.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): The base of the creamy sauce, providing a luxurious texture.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): For herbaceous notes throughout the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Adds umami and sharpness to the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnishing and adding a touch of freshness.

Possible Substitutions:

• Linguine: Substitute with fettuccine or spaghetti if desired.
• Heavy Cream: You could use half-and-half, but note that it may make the sauce slightly thinner.
• Chicken Broth: White wine can be used to add more complexity to the flavor.

Equipment Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Large Skillet: A non-stick or stainless steel skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Tongs: To turn the chicken easily.
• Mixing Bowls: For mixing the flour and seasonings.
• Whisk: To blend the sauce smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Here’s how to make Creamy Chicken Pasta with ease:

Pre-Preparation

1. Season and Dredge the Chicken:
   • In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
   • Season the chicken breast portions with the spice mix and dredge in the flour, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
2. Prepare the Pasta:
   • Cook the linguine in heavily salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, drizzling with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Cooking

1. Sear the Chicken:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the mixture is hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around 30 seconds.
   • Slowly drizzle in the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the skillet for added flavor.
   • Stir in the heavy cream, remaining salt, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer, then add parmesan cheese and stir until melted into the sauce.
3. Combine and Finish:
   • Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Stir well and allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is warmed through.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips and Tricks

To make the most of your Creamy Chicken Pasta:

• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Letting the sauce simmer allows it to thicken properly. The sauce will be thin at first but thickens as it rests and as the pasta absorbs the liquid.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated parmesan and freshly minced garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for a complete one-pan meal.

Nutritional Information

A detailed breakdown of the nutritional content for Creamy Chicken Pasta:

• Calories: 769 kcal per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fat: 41g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Rich in protein and fats, this meal is indulgent and perfect for a comforting dinner.

FAQs

1. Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
   A: Whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be significantly thinner. I recommend using heavy cream for the best results.
2. Q: Is this an alfredo sauce?
   A: It’s similar to an Americanized alfredo sauce, but with added garlic, onions, and seasonings for more complexity.
3. Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
   A: Pre-cooked chicken would not provide the same flavor as the freshly seared chicken. It’s best to cook the chicken as outlined in the recipe.
4. Q: Can I add vegetables?
   A: Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms would all be great additions to this dish.
5. Q: How can I store leftovers?
   A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad: A light green salad helps balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or broccoli make great sides for added nutrition.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Pasta is the perfect comfort food, blending tender chicken with a rich and garlicky sauce for a satisfying dinner. It’s versatile enough to add your favorite vegetables, and it pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Don’t hesitate to try other creamy dishes like Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta to add a spicy twist to your weeknight dinners!