Get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure happiness with this chicken pasta recipe! Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic sauce come together in a symphony of flavors that will warm your heart. Toss in some fresh veggies for a pop of color and nutrition, and you’ve got a dish that’s not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this delightful comfort food adventure!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love the creamy, dreamy sauce that hugs every noodle!
- This one’s a game-changer for busy weeknights—quick and easy to whip up!
- It’s a crowd-pleaser; perfect for family dinners or impressing friends!
- Customize it with your favorite veggies for a personal touch!
- Leftovers? They taste even better the next day—if there are any!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Course |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free Option Available |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm with Parmesan |
Ingredients
- Chicken breast – lean protein that keeps the dish hearty.
- Pasta – choose your favorite type for a comforting base.
- Olive oil – adds richness and helps sauté the ingredients.
- Garlic – enhances flavor with its aromatic qualities.
- Bell peppers – adds color and sweetness to the dish.
- Spinach – a nutritious green that wilts beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese – brings a savory, cheesy finish.
- Chicken broth – adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
- Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that elevates the flavor profile.
- Black pepper – for a touch of heat and seasoning.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delightful chicken pasta dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 2 cups of cooked pasta, 1 pound of boneless chicken breast, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup of spinach, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, and grated Parmesan cheese for serving.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. This adds a lovely color and nutrition to your dish!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate your delicious chicken pasta recipe, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy your comforting meal with a smile!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor.
Cook pasta al dente for the perfect texture that holds up in the sauce.
For creaminess, add a splash of chicken broth instead of heavy cream.
Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
How to Serve
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory kick.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a classic touch.
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water.
- For a creamy finish, drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers properly ensures your chicken pasta stays delicious for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chicken pasta to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container for best results.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the chicken pasta completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date and type of dish for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen chicken pasta in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
- Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for chicken pasta recipes?
For chicken pasta recipes, you can use a variety of pasta types. Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti are great choices. Choose one that holds sauce well for the best flavor experience!
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken is perfect for this dish. Just shred or chop it and add it to the sauce for a quick and easy meal.
What can I substitute for cream in the sauce?
If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a mixture of milk and cornstarch. These alternatives will give you a creamy texture without the heaviness.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make your chicken pasta healthier, consider using whole grain pasta and adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. This boosts nutrition while keeping it delicious!
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—your new favorite chicken pasta recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful dish, and savor every bite together. Remember, cooking should be fun and fulfilling, so don’t stress—just enjoy the process and the delicious results. Happy cooking!
chicken pasta recipe
Equipment
- 1 large skillet For cooking the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast Lean protein that keeps the dish hearty.
- 2 cups cooked pasta Choose your favorite type for a comforting base.
Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and helps sauté the ingredients.
Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic Minced to enhance flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes Halved for sweetness.
- 1 cup spinach Nutritious green that wilts beautifully.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of herbs that elevates the flavor profile.
- to taste salt For seasoning.
- to taste black pepper For a touch of heat.
Dairy
- grated Parmesan cheese For serving and a savory finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect 2 cups of cooked pasta, 1 pound of boneless chicken breast, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup of spinach, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, and grated Parmesan cheese for serving.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. This adds a lovely color and nutrition to your dish!
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Plate your delicious chicken pasta, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy your comforting meal with a smile!