Creamy Chicken Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings together tender shredded chicken and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
8 oz penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 people. The prep time is approximately 10 minutes, while the cooking time is about 15 minutes, leading to a total time of around 25 minutes.
Variations
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for a different taste.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
10 FAQs
- Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. - What other pasta shapes can I use?
Any pasta shape will work, such as fettuccine, bowties, or fusilli. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs. - How can I make it healthier?
Use whole grain pasta and reduce the amount of heavy cream by substituting half with low-fat milk. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately to maintain texture. - What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. - Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. - How do I avoid a lumpy sauce?
Make sure to stir continuously when adding the cheese to ensure it melts evenly. - Can I add other proteins?
Yes, feel free to add shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for variety. - How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Pasta is a deliciously rich and satisfying meal that can be customized to your taste. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!
PrintCreamy Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that’s both rich and satisfying. Featuring tender chicken and a luscious cream sauce, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and add Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For added flavor, consider including vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes in the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes