As a lover of pasta, I’m excited to share with you my favorite Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it and how to make it!
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love It
This creamy chicken pasta is a game-changer for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: It takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it more personalized.
- Delicious: The combination of garlic, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce creates a rich and satisfying taste.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 8 oz (226 g) penne or your preferred pasta shape
- Chicken: 1 lb (453 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Vegetables: 1 cup mixed mushrooms, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Sauce: 2 tbsp butter, 1 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, dried oregano
- Garnish: Fresh parsley
How to Make It
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook in a pan with olive oil until done. Set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same pan, add butter and cook garlic until fragrant. Add mushrooms and cherry tomatoes, cooking until they soften.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Pour in milk and stir until it starts to simmer. Add parmesan cheese and mix until melted.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss well, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Salad and Bread: Pair with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Additional Vegetables: Add spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value.
Tips for Customization
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Use fresh rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu and use plant-based milk.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
Q: How can I make it healthier?
A: Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of butter, and add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Yes, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce thickens.Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken pasta!
