Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipes
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.
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.