Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite enveloped in a creamy, garlicky sauce that dances on your taste buds. The tender chunks of chicken, sautéed to golden perfection,For tips on safe handling and cooking of poultry, check out the USDA’s chicken preparation guidelines, mingle with vibrant veggies, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. As you take a deep breath, the warm, savory aroma fills the air, inviting you to dive in. This chicken pasta recipe is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on a quiet night in. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love this creamy, dreamy sauce!
- This one’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners.
- It’s packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spices!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish |
| Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and cheesy right off the cob! |
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast – the star of the dish, providing protein and flavor.
- Pasta – choose your favorite type for a hearty base.
- Olive Oil – for sautéing and adding richness.
- Garlic – enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
- Onion – adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Bell Peppers – for a pop of color and crunch.
- Spinach – a nutritious addition that wilts beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese – for a creamy, savory finish.
- Salt and Pepper – essential for seasoning to taste.
- Italian Herbs – a blend of flavors that elevates the dish.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious chicken pasta recipe dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 2 chicken breasts, 8 oz of pasta, 2 cups of spinach, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, 2 cloves of garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. For a guide on cooking pasta perfectly every time, including tips on al dente texture, visit.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Veggies
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Toss in the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Slice the chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water. Toss everything together to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your chicken pasta recipe, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired, and dig in! Enjoy your comforting creation!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors.
- Cook pasta al dente for the perfect texture.
- Add a splash of pasta water to your sauce for creaminess.
- Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for extra depth.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to meld the flavors.
How to Serve “chicken pasta recipe”
- 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 that extra comfort.
- Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
- For a spicy twist, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.
- Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing “chicken pasta recipe”
- Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers.
- Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date and type of dish.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating “chicken pasta recipe”
- Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Ensure it’s heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Refer to the USDA’s reheating safety guidelines to ensure your leftovers are safe to enjoy.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for chicken pasta recipe?
While you can use any pasta you like, penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti are popular choices. They hold sauces well and complement the chicken beautifully.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great. Just shred it and add it to the sauce for a quick and easy meal.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta, adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, and using lean chicken breast. You can also reduce the amount of cheese.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve to keep it from getting mushy.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new favorite chicken pasta recipe! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Just imagine the smiles around the table as you serve this comforting dish. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the magic happen! Enjoy every bite and the warmth it brings to your home. Happy cooking, friend!
chicken pasta recipe
Equipment
- 1 large pot For boiling pasta.
- 1 large skillet For sautéing chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast The star of the dish, providing protein and flavor.
Pasta
- 8 oz Pasta Choose your favorite type for a hearty base.
Vegetables
- 2 cups Spinach A nutritious addition that wilts beautifully.
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 cloves Garlic Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 medium Bell Pepper For a pop of color and crunch.
Dairy
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese For a creamy, savory finish.
Seasoning
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
- to taste Italian Herbs A blend of flavors that elevates the dish.
Oil
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing and adding richness.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect 2 chicken breasts, 8 oz of pasta, 2 cups of spinach, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, 2 cloves of garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Veggies
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Toss in the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Slice the chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water. Toss everything together to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate your chicken pasta, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired, and dig in! Enjoy your comforting creation!