Chicken Pasta Recipe

Chicken Pasta is a simple, filling meal that brings tender chicken, pasta, garlic, herbs, and a creamy sauce together in one pan. It works well for a busy weeknight because you can cook the pasta while the chicken browns.

The best part is how easy it is to change. Add spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more flavor and color. I like this recipe when I want a warm homemade dinner without spending hours at the stove. The sauce coats every bite, while the seasoned chicken adds plenty of flavor and protein. It is also easy to adjust for picky eaters or a family dinner.

What is Chicken Pasta

Chicken Pasta is a pasta dish made with cooked chicken and pasta tossed in a flavorful sauce. This version uses a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce that pairs well with penne or other short pasta shapes.

Ingredients

12 ounces penne pasta
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Save 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Season the chicken: Cut the chicken into small, even pieces. Season with salt, pepper, paprika and Italian seasoning.

3. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning often, until golden and cooked through. Transfer it to a plate.

4. Cook the garlic: Lower the heat to medium. Add butter and garlic to the same skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.

6. Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss well. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce feels too thick.

7. Finish the dish: Add red pepper flakes and fresh parsley if desired. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving.

Essential Note

Cook the chicken until it reaches 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part. Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.

Do not boil the cream sauce hard after adding Parmesan. Gentle heat helps keep the sauce smooth and prevents the cheese from becoming grainy.

Pasta water contains starch, which helps loosen the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta. Add it slowly instead of adding all of it at once.

For the best texture, cook the pasta just until al dente. The pasta will continue to absorb some sauce after you combine it with the chicken. If you plan to store leftovers, keep a little extra sauce or pasta water available when reheating.

Recipe Notes

Use penne, fettuccine, rotini, or your favorite pasta. Add spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

Cut the chicken into small, even pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly. Pat it dry before seasoning to help it brown nicely.

Salt the pasta water before cooking. It gives the pasta more flavor from the start. Do not overcook the pasta because soft pasta can become mushy in the sauce.

Keep some pasta water before draining. A small splash can make a thick sauce creamy and smooth.

Cook garlic briefly because burnt garlic can make the whole dish bitter. Add Parmesan over low heat and stir often for a silky sauce.

Taste the finished Chicken Pasta before serving. A little extra black pepper, Parmesan, parsley, or red pepper flakes can make a big difference.

Anupam

Before I even start cooking, I taste-test everything to make sure it’s spot-on. Then, I break it down for you with everyday essentials, nutrition info, and simple, step-by-step instructions. From breakfast to dinner, I walk you through each stage so cooking becomes easy, fun, and stress-free.