Description
Picture this: tender chicken breasts sautéed to perfection, tossed with al dente pasta, all smothered in a rich, velvety cream sauce. This creamy Italian chicken pasta is the kind of dish that brings people together, making any dinner feel like a cozy celebration. With its Italian heritage, it’s reminiscent of Sunday family gatherings where everyone sits around the table, enjoying the warmth of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re new to Italian cuisine or a seasoned pasta lover, this recipe is straightforward yet impressive enough to serve on special occasions. So, grab your apron, and let’s whip up this delicious meal!
Ingredients
To prepare this Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta, you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or any type you prefer)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
How to Make Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. This ensures the pasta absorbs the seasoning as it boils. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and additional salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well-coated. Then, add the cooked pasta and gently stir everything together to make sure the pasta is covered in that delicious, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
For a final touch, garnish your creamy chicken pasta with fresh parsley and some extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve it right away for the best taste and texture!
Notes
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Make sure you don’t overcook the pasta! Cooking it just until al dente ensures it holds up in the sauce without getting mushy.
- Creamy Sauce Tip: If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
- Add-ins for Variety: Toss in some fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and extra flavor. They blend beautifully with the creamy sauce and add a burst of freshness.
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