Chicken pasta is a comfort food classic that never goes out of style. This creamy chicken pasta combines tender chicken strips, a rich and creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. The creamy sauce, made from heavy cream and chicken broth, is infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, creating a silky texture that coats each bite of pasta. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness and color, while Italian seasoning brings everything together with the perfect blend of herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or serving it to guests, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. Ready in just 30 minutes, this chicken pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want something that feels indulgent but is quick to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken pasta recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and tender pasta creates a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce, while the cherry tomatoes provide a burst of freshness. The best part is that it’s customizable—use your favorite type of pasta, add extra veggies, or adjust the seasonings to your liking. It’s a versatile and indulgent meal that the whole family will love, and it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

Cooked pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
Chicken breast, sliced into strips
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Grated Parmesan cheese
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

There are several ways to adjust this creamy chicken pasta recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:

Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a meat-free meal.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to give the dish some heat.
Different Cheese: Swap the Parmesan for mozzarella or a sharp cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
Low-fat Option: Use a lower-fat version of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, making it creamy and smooth. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Return the cooked pasta and chicken strips to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for garnish. Serve the chicken pasta immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook the Chicken Evenly: To ensure your chicken cooks evenly, slice it into thin strips before sautéing. This also helps it cook faster.
Don’t Overcook the Garlic: When cooking the garlic, be sure to avoid burning it. Garlic cooks quickly, and just 1 minute is enough to release its flavor.
Use Fresh Pasta: For an even more indulgent dish, try using fresh pasta instead of dried pasta for a softer, more delicate texture.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra chicken broth or milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.

How to Serve

This creamy chicken pasta is best served hot, directly from the skillet. It pairs well with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It also works beautifully as a main dish for a family dinner or a special meal with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in a skillet, adding a little cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a small amount of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for a juicier, more flavorful option.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cream substitute, such as coconut cream, and dairy-free cheese alternatives to make the dish dairy-free.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to enhance the dish and make it even more nutritious.

4. Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.

6. Can I use heavy whipping cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, heavy whipping cream works just as well as heavy cream in this recipe, creating the same creamy texture.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, for a quicker preparation. Just add it to the skillet with the tomatoes and sauce.

8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then combine everything when ready to serve.

9. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, you can stir in some red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce into the sauce.

10. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work wonderfully in this creamy chicken pasta.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken pasta is a perfect balance of comfort and flavor, with tender chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and just the right amount of seasoning. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish will impress with its richness and delicious combination of ingredients. Serve it alongside a simple salad or bread for a complete and hearty meal!