How long does it take to make Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta?

Based on our recipe instructions, the entire process should take about 40-50 minutes. This includes preparing and cooking the chicken, boiling the pasta, and making the creamy sauce. It's a dish that requires some attention but is quite manageable within an hour.

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta?

You'll need the following ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, various spices, olive oil, penne pasta, chicken broth, tomato paste, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, heavy cream, cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh or frozen spinach, and optionally, parsley for garnishing.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other pasta types like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. Choose a pasta that can hold the creamy sauce well. Just ensure to adjust cooking times according to the package instructions of the pasta you choose.

What can I use instead of chicken broth in this recipe?

If you're out of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute. It will still provide a good depth of flavor to the sauce. Alternatively, you can dissolve a bouillon cube in water as a quick replacement.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?

The chicken breasts should be cooked for about 5-6 minutes on each side over medium heat. To ensure they're properly done, you can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The chicken should also be white throughout, with no pink remaining.

Can I add more vegetables to the Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta?

Certainly! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce. Just sauté them in the skillet after cooking the chicken, before adding the broth and other ingredients, to ensure they're tender and flavorful.

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta: Ultimate Comfort Food Delight

Name: Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; 1/2 tsp (3 ml) each: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and Italian seasoning; 3 tbsp olive oil (45 ml) (you can also sub vegetable oil if it’s what you have); 1/2 pound penne pasta (225 g) (usually half a box); 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (360 ml) (divided); 1 tbsp (15 ml) tomato paste; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp (5 ml) Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp (1 ml) salt; 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml); 4 oz softened cream cheese (115 g); 3/4 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes (180 ml); 3/4 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (75 g); 2 handfuls of fresh spinach or about 1/2 cup (120 ml) frozen spinach; parsley to garnish (optional)

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📑 Table of Contents ▶

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta
Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta: A Culinary Delight
Fundamentals
Preparation/setup
Mastering the Art of Creamy Pasta
Technique
Tips/tricks
Perfecting Your Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta
Perfecting results
Troubleshooting/variations
Serving and Storing Your Culinary Creation
Serving/presentation
Pairings/storage
Conclusion
FAQs – Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Ever since I was a child, the kitchen has been my playground, and one of my favorite games was creating a delicious mess while experimenting with new recipes. Among all the dishes I’ve tried, the one that holds a special place in my heart is Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta. Its rich flavors and comforting textures remind me of those joyful culinary adventures.

There’s something magical about combining simple ingredients to create a dish like Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta. It’s a recipe that evokes warmth and togetherness, perfect for sharing with loved ones around the dinner table. The aroma of garlic and Italian seasoning wafting through the air is enough to make anyone’s heart sing.

What I love most about this Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is its versatility. Whether you’re crafting a cozy meal for two or feeding a hungry crowd, it adapts beautifully to any occasion. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that transports you to an Italian trattoria, even if you’re just in your own kitchen.

Join me as we dive into the world of Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta, exploring its fundamentals, preparation, and the little tricks that make it an unforgettable dish. Let’s create something beautiful together!

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

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Author: Billie
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Indulge in a delicious Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta recipe! Learn how to make a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any meal. Click here for the full recipe.

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts
1/2 tsp (3 ml) each: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and Italian seasoning
3 tbsp olive oil (45 ml) (you can also sub vegetable oil if it’s what you have)
1/2 pound penne pasta (225 g) (usually half a box)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth (360 ml) (divided)
1 tbsp (15 ml) tomato paste
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp (5 ml) Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp (1 ml) salt
1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
4 oz softened cream cheese (115 g)
3/4 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes (180 ml)
3/4 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (75 g)
2 handfuls of fresh spinach or about 1/2 cup (120 ml) frozen spinach
parsley to garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Combine the spices for the chicken and sprinkle them on each piece to ensure they are well coated.
Warm a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side until thoroughly done.
Place the chicken on a plate, cover it with foil, and let it rest to keep warm.
Fill a large pot with water and heat it for the pasta as you prepare the sauce. Add 2 teaspoons of salt to the water. Once the water is boiling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Using the same skillet where the chicken was cooked (maintaining medium heat), pour in ½ cup of chicken broth, add tomato paste, and minced garlic. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture reduces by half.
Stir in the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth, Italian seasoning, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for roughly 5 minutes.
Incorporate the softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheeses are fully melted.
Turn off the heat and mix in the spinach until it wilts, taking about 2 minutes.
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce by stirring them together.
Arrange the cooked chicken on top, add any juices from the plate, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a healthier version.
Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of spice in the sauce.
No sun-dried tomatoes? Use cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor.

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta: A Culinary Delight

Fundamentals

Creating the perfect Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta begins with understanding the fundamentals. This dish combines tender chicken breasts seasoned with a harmonious blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and Italian seasoning. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the foundation of flavors that define this dish.

The pasta of choice here is penne, which holds the sauce beautifully with its tubular shape. When cooked al dente, penne provides a delightful texture that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. The chicken broth, divided into two portions, enhances the depth of flavor, while heavy cream and cream cheese bring a luxurious richness.

Preparation/setup

Preparation is key to ensuring your Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta turns out just right. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with the spice blend, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor. Sear them in a skillet with olive oil, cooking until juicy and tender. Meanwhile, boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

As the chicken rests, covered with foil to keep it warm, it’s time to focus on the sauce. Using the same skillet, prepare a reduction with chicken broth, tomato paste, and minced garlic, allowing the mixture to simmer and intensify in flavor. The remaining chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and heavy cream are then added, creating a creamy base for the sauce.

Incorporate softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Finally, fold in fresh spinach, letting it wilt gently in the residual heat. This step not only adds a pop of color but also contributes a subtle earthy flavor.

Mastering the Art of Creamy Pasta

Technique

Mastering the art of Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta involves perfecting your technique. Searing the chicken properly is crucial for locking in juices and achieving that golden-brown crust. Use a large, high-sided skillet to ensure even cooking, and avoid overcrowding the pan. This allows each chicken piece to cook thoroughly and develop a beautiful sear.

While making the sauce, pay attention to the reduction process. Letting the broth and tomato paste mixture reduce by half intensifies the flavors, creating a robust base for your creamy sauce. Stirring continuously as you add the cream and cheeses ensures a velvety texture without any lumps.

Tips/tricks

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the spice blend for a few hours before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in even more flavorful chicken. Additionally, using freshly shredded mozzarella cheese instead of pre-shredded ensures better melting and a smoother sauce.

If you’re short on time, you can prepare the chicken and pasta ahead of time, storing them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken gently in the sauce, adding the pasta just before serving to maintain its texture.

Perfecting Your Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Perfecting results

Perfecting your Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta involves balancing flavors and textures. Taste the sauce as it simmers, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. Adding a pinch more salt or Italian seasoning can enhance the overall taste profile, while a splash of chicken broth can thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.

When combining the pasta with the sauce, ensure each penne piece is well-coated. This ensures every bite is full of flavor and creamy goodness. If you prefer a saucier dish, reserve a bit of the pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your sauce is too thin, try adding more cream cheese or mozzarella to thicken it. Conversely, if it’s too thick, a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water can help achieve the desired consistency.

For variations, consider adding other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture. Alternatively, swap out the penne for another pasta variety that suits your preference. The versatility of this dish allows for endless customization.

Serving and Storing Your Culinary Creation

Serving/presentation

Presentation plays a key role in enhancing the dining experience. Arrange the cooked chicken on top of the pasta, spooning any juices from the resting plate over the dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of color and freshness.

Serve your Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful colors and textures. This allows for easy access to both the pasta and the succulent chicken pieces, ensuring a delightful eating experience.

Pairings/storage

For a complete meal, pair this pasta with a simple green salad or garlic bread. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta, while the garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. This dish also freezes well for up to a month, making it a convenient meal prep option.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together comfort and flavor in every bite. Its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a standout meal for any occasion. By understanding the fundamentals, mastering your technique, and experimenting with variations, you can tailor this dish to suit your tastes and preferences.

This recipe’s versatility shines, offering endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, it never fails to impress. With proper preparation and a few handy tips, Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta becomes more than just a meal—it becomes a cherished culinary experience.

As you continue your cooking journey, let this dish inspire you to explore new flavors and techniques, creating memorable moments along the way. Celebrate the joy of cooking and the satisfaction of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

For more creamy pasta inspirations, check out this creamy chicken pot pie pasta skillet or explore a delightful twist on flavors with sous vide chicken breasts with lemon garlic and rosemary.