Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, creamy sauce infused with classic Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese. It’s a versatile meal, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. This dish is not only easy to make but also rich in flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Let’s get into the details!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once slightly cooled, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add the Cream and Broth:
- Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate the Parmesan:
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Flavor the Sauce:
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil (or fresh basil), and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine and Serve:
- Toss the Pasta and Chicken:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Add Spinach (Optional):
- If using, stir in the baby spinach until wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve the Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Conclusion
Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors in one comforting bowl. The combination of tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this recipe a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal!