There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of creamy chicken pasta. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I remember my first attempt at making this delightful meal; I was a bit nervous but excited to bring my family together around the table. They’d come in from the cold, and the aroma of garlic and cheese would greet them like an old friend. It didn’t take long for me to realize that this dish, with its luscious sauce and tender chicken, would become a staple in our home.

What I love most about this creamy chicken pasta is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to create a meal that feels special. In just about 25 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday dinner. The best part? Everyone loves it! You can easily adapt it to fit your family’s tastes or dietary needs. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into a recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your household, just like it is in mine!

Ingredients List

To make this creamy chicken pasta, you’ll need a few simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• 8 oz pasta: You can use any type you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or bowtie. Just make sure it’s your family’s favorite!
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Leftover roast chicken works wonders, or you can quickly cook some chicken breasts to save time.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture. If you prefer a lighter option, half-and-half is a great substitute.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Using low-sodium broth will help you control the saltiness of the dish.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Go for freshly grated if you can; it melts beautifully and adds incredible flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the sauce.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: This will be used to sauté the garlic and chicken, bringing everything together.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that make a big difference in flavor.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a comforting meal that your family will adore!

How to Prepare Chicken Pasta Creamy

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get to the fun part: cooking! The beautiful thing about this creamy chicken pasta is how straightforward it is. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. So, let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your creamy chicken pasta:

• Cook the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling away, add your 8 ounces of pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a bit of that pasta water; it can help thicken the sauce later!
• Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the 2 minced cloves of garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
• Combine chicken and broth: Next, add your 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the chicken to warm up for about 2-3 minutes. Then, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will add a lovely depth of flavor.
• Create the creamy sauce: Once the broth is simmering, it’s time to add the star of the show—1 cup of heavy cream. Stir it in gently, followed by 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating that rich, creamy texture we all love.
• Mix in the pasta: Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat every piece with the delicious sauce. If the sauce seems a bit thick, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
• Season to taste: Finally, sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last good mix and let it heat through for another minute or two.
• Serve and enjoy: Your creamy chicken pasta is ready! Serve it warm in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color. Everyone will be asking for seconds!

And there you have it! With these steps, you’ve created a comforting dish that’s sure to bring smiles to the dinner table. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to creamy chicken pasta, it’s nice to know what you’re enjoying while indulging in this comforting dish. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one serving (about 1 cup):

• Calories: 500
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 25g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of pasta or chicken. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal without too much fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken pasta recipe has all the qualities that make it a family favorite. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Comforting and Satisfying: With its rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken, this dish feels like a warm hug on your plate.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending all evening in the kitchen.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer gluten-free pasta or want to add in some veggies, this recipe is easy to adapt to fit your family’s tastes and dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves creamy chicken pasta! It’s a surefire way to please picky eaters and bring everyone to the table.

With so many wonderful reasons to make it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again!

Tips for Success

To ensure your creamy chicken pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips from my own cooking adventures:

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time during the week, consider cooking your chicken in advance. Shredded rotisserie chicken works like a charm and saves you precious minutes!
• Mind the Garlic: When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on it. It can go from fragrant to burnt in a blink! Stir it gently and remove it from heat as soon as it becomes golden.
• Don’t Skip the Salt: Seasoning is key! Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper; they elevate the flavors beautifully. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance.
• Use the Right Pasta: Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like penne or fusilli. They’ll trap the creamy sauce in every nook and cranny, ensuring flavor in every bite!
• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the flavors. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh twist!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this comforting dish. Happy cooking!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

When it comes to making this creamy chicken pasta, there’s room for flexibility to suit your dietary preferences! Here are a few ingredient notes and substitutions to consider:

• Heavy cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can easily swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less rich, but it will still taste delightful!
• Pasta: Want to make it gluten-free? No problem! Gluten-free pasta works beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they can vary.
• Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds incredible flavor. If you need a vegetarian version, feel free to replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite veggies.
• Parmesan cheese: While freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

These swaps make it easy to adapt this comforting dish to fit your family’s needs while keeping the essence of creamy chicken pasta intact!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your creamy chicken pasta, a few simple accompaniments can elevate the meal and make it even more delightful. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully. The refreshing crunch balances the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttered garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate!
• Steamed Vegetables: Consider serving some lightly steamed broccoli or green beans on the side. They add a pop of color and nutrients to your meal.
• Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a glass of wine, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors of the chicken and cream beautifully.

These simple sides not only enhance the experience but also make your dinner feel like a special occasion. Enjoy your meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you find yourself with leftovers of this creamy chicken pasta (which is a great problem to have!), you’ll want to store it properly to keep that deliciousness intact. Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze! Just place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up and help bring back that creamy texture. Stir it gently until heated through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely to prevent splattering, for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Remember, never reheat more than once, and always check that it’s heated evenly. Enjoy your comforting meal again!

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.

To learn about the nutritional value of pasta, check out Nutrition Value.

Creamy Chicken Pasta: 5 Simple Steps to Comforting Joy

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Creamy chicken pasta that brings comfort to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, mixing well.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
• Try gluten-free pasta if needed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: chicken pasta creamy, easy chicken recipe, comfort food