Name: Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or fresh herbs like basil and parsley); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1 cup spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms

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This chicken pasta recipe is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying dinner. I love how tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich sauce come together to make a dish that feels comforting yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Chicken Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s versatile and can be made with ingredients I usually have in my pantry. The chicken makes it hearty, the pasta gives it substance, and the sauce ties everything together. It’s also easy to customize with different flavors and add-ins depending on my mood.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breast or thighs
pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
olive oil
garlic
onion
heavy cream or half-and-half
Parmesan cheese
chicken broth
Italian seasoning or fresh herbs
salt
black pepper
optional: spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms

Directions

I cook the pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
I season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
I heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, then slice it.
In the same skillet, I sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
I add chicken broth and cream, simmering until slightly thickened.
I stir in Parmesan cheese to create a creamy sauce.
I add the pasta and chicken back into the pan, tossing until everything is coated.
I serve hot with extra Parmesan and herbs on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time takes me 10 minutes, cooking is about 20 minutes, so the whole dish is ready in around 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the cream for tomato sauce to make a lighter red version. If I want extra veggies, I add broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. For spice, I toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. I’ve also used leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it fresh to save time.

storage/reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. I avoid reheating in the microwave for too long since the chicken can dry out.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, I often switch to whole wheat or gluten-free pasta depending on what I have.

Can I make this without cream?

Yes, I sometimes use milk with a little cornstarch, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

I like using boneless, skinless breasts for quick cooking, but thighs stay juicier.

Can I add cheese besides Parmesan?

Yes, mozzarella, Asiago, or even cream cheese work for a different twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then cook fresh pasta and toss everything together before serving.

Conclusion

I love making this chicken pasta recipe because it’s quick, delicious, and endlessly adaptable. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and filling without being complicated, and it always makes the table feel complete. Whether I keep it simple or dress it up, it’s a recipe I know I’ll come back to often.