👉CreamyItalian Pasta – Recipes on a Budget

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Description: Indulge in a rich and comforting meal with this Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken breast is seasoned with Italian herbs and simmered in a luscious cream sauce with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta, this dish is a perfect weeknight dinner or a special treat for your loved ones. It’s simple to make but bursting with authentic Italian flavors, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz penne pasta
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Cook the pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cook the chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season it with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through.
Sauté garlic and tomatoes:
Add the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices.
Make the creamy sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine with pasta:
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.

Variations:

Add spinach: Stir in some fresh spinach leaves for added color and nutrition.
Substitute chicken: Use shrimp, sausage, or even a plant-based protein like tofu for different flavors.
Add vegetables: Incorporate mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra veggies in the sauce.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegan version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream and vegan cheese to make the dish dairy-free.

Serving Tips:

Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Pair it with a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, for a well-rounded dinner.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Tips:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra cream or milk to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings, adding a splash of cream for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you prefer works great in this recipe, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then just add the pasta when ready to serve.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes cause the sauce to separate. It’s best to store leftovers in the fridge and consume within a few days.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half can be used for a lighter version of the sauce.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, or Asiago are great substitutes for Parmesan.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken thoroughly before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What other herbs can I use in place of Italian seasoning?
You can use a mix of oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, and parsley for a more customized flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pasta, the dish can be made gluten-free.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes or chili peppers for some heat.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let the sauce simmer longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken the sauce.
Can I add more veggies?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to enhance the dish.
What should I serve with this pasta?
Pair with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
While milk can be used, it won’t give the sauce the same creamy consistency as heavy cream.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cook the chicken over medium heat and avoid overcooking it. It should be golden on the outside but still juicy on the inside.
What kind of tomatoes work best for this recipe?
Cherry or grape tomatoes work best for their sweetness and ability to soften quickly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or almond milk and dairy-free cheese as a substitute.
How do I reheat this pasta?
Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Can I add bacon to this dish?
Yes! Crispy bacon bits would add a savory crunch to the creamy sauce.
What wine pairs well with creamy pasta?
A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs nicely with creamy dishes.
Can I use frozen cherry tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes are ideal, but frozen ones will work in a pinch. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding them to the skillet.

20 Best Tips to Make It Perfect:

Don’t overcook the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce texture.
Simmer the sauce gently to avoid curdling the cream.
Reserve pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce.
Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference.
Add a splash of pasta cooking water to the sauce for more flavor and creaminess.
Toss pasta in the sauce before serving for the best flavor absorption.
Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning.
Don’t overcrowd the chicken in the skillet to ensure even cooking.
Choose quality olive oil for better flavor in the dish.
Chop the chicken evenly so it cooks uniformly.
Add garlic toward the end to avoid burning it and keep the flavor fresh.
Use room temperature cream for smoother incorporation into the sauce.
Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for the best flavor.
Let the sauce thicken on its own before adding any thickening agents.
Consider adding a squeeze of lemon for a tangy contrast to the creaminess.
Garnish with fresh basil for an aromatic finish.
Make sure to drain the pasta well so it doesn’t water down the sauce.
Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best texture.
Use the best quality chicken breast for a tender and juicy texture.