Introduction
Nothing beats the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Pasta.
This dish is a family favorite because it is rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you are cooking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or preparing a special dish for guests, creamy chicken pasta recipes are always a great choice.
In this article, we will cover a delicious and easy creamy chicken pasta recipe that you can make in just 30 minutes. The creamy, cheesy, and flavorful sauce coats every strand of pasta, making each bite absolutely irresistible.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This creamy chicken pasta recipe is perfect for so many reasons. Here is why you will love it:
- Quick and Easy – Ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy – The smooth, velvety sauce coats the pasta perfectly.
- Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the mild, cheesy flavor.
- One-Pan Dish – Less mess and fewer dishes to clean.
- Customizable – Add vegetables, extra cheese, or different proteins to make it your own.
Ingredients To Make Creamy Chicken Pasta
Here’s What You’ll Need
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breast or Thighs – Two cups, diced or shredded.
- Olive Oil – Two tablespoons, for cooking.
- Garlic – Three cloves, minced.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste.
- Italian Seasoning – One teaspoon, for extra flavor.
- Paprika – Half a teaspoon, for color and depth.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Butter – Two tablespoons.
- Flour – Two tablespoons, for thickening.
- Heavy Cream – One and a half cups.
- Chicken Broth – One cup.
- Cream Cheese – Four ounces, softened.
- Parmesan Cheese – Half a cup, freshly grated.
For the Pasta
- Pasta of Choice – Two cups, uncooked. (Penne, fettuccine, or rotini work best.)
- Water – Four cups, to boil the pasta.
Optional Add-Ins
- Spinach or Broccoli – One cup, for extra greens.
- Mushrooms – Half a cup, sliced.
- Red Pepper Flakes – One teaspoon, for a spicy kick.
How To Make Creamy Chicken Pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add salt.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk for one minute to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Add cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir it into the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken pasta!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better and enhances the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook it al dente so it does not become mushy.
- Control the Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
- Make It Healthier – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use whole wheat pasta.
- Add Extra Protein – Try adding shrimp, bacon, or sausage for a twist.
What To Serve With Creamy Chicken Pasta
This creamy chicken pasta is delicious on its own, but here are some great sides to complement the dish:
- Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery side perfect for dipping into the sauce.
- Caesar Salad – A light and refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus pair well.
- Roasted Potatoes – A crispy and hearty side dish.
Nutritional Information
Here is an approximate breakdown per serving, based on six servings.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500 – 550 kcal |
| Protein | 35 – 40 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 – 50 g |
| Fat | 22 – 28 g |
| Fiber | 3 – 5 g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.
Essential Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
To make this Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe, you will need:
- Large Skillet or Pan – For cooking the chicken and sauce.
- Pasta Pot – To cook the pasta.
- Whisk – For making the creamy sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring everything together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup
- Paula Deen Chicken Casserole With Ritz Crackers
- Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers
- Meatball Pasta Recipe Creamy
- Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole with Bow Tie Pasta
- Shrimp Pineapple Fried Rice
- Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice
- Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice
- Ground Beef Fried Rice
- Korean Beef Fried Rice
FAQs
1. Can I Use Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. For a creamy texture, use half-and-half or evaporated milk.
2. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes. Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
3. Can I Freeze Creamy Chicken Pasta?
It is best to freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
4. Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Yes. Rotini, bowtie, or spaghetti all work well in this recipe.
5. How Can I Make It Spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Recipe Cards
Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipes
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Pan – For cooking the chicken and sauce
- Pasta Pot – To cook the pasta
- Whisk – For making the creamy sauce
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring everything together
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient portions
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Chicken Breast or Thighs – Two cups diced or shredded
- Olive Oil – Two tablespoons for cooking
- Garlic – Three cloves minced
- Salt and Pepper – To taste
- Italian Seasoning – One teaspoon for extra flavor
- Paprika – Half a teaspoon for color and depth
For the Creamy Sauce:
- Butter – Two tablespoons
- Flour – Two tablespoons for thickening
- Heavy Cream – One and a half cups
- Chicken Broth – One cup
- Cream Cheese – Four ounces softened
- Parmesan Cheese – Half a cup freshly grated
For the Pasta:
- Pasta of Choice – Two cups uncooked. (Penne, fettuccine, or rotini work best)
- Water – Four cups to boil the pasta
Optional Add-Ins:
- Spinach or Broccoli – One cup for extra greens
- Mushrooms – Half a cup sliced
- Red Pepper Flakes – One teaspoon for a spicy kick
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Cook the Pasta:
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add salt.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same pan used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk for one minute to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Add cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir it into the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavors.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken pasta!
Notes
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better and enhances the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook it al dente so it does not become mushy.
- Control the Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
- Make It Healthier – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use whole wheat pasta.
- Add Extra Protein – Try adding shrimp, bacon, or sausage for a twist.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe is the perfect blend of comfort, richness, and flavor. It is a quick and easy meal that your whole family will love. Whether you are making it for dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this creamy chicken pasta is sure to impress.
Try this delicious and creamy pasta dish today and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that is both easy and irresistible.
