You Won’t Believe How Easy This Creamy Chicken Pasta Is!
If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a five-star dining experience, look no further! This creamy chicken pasta recipe is not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this dish combines tender chicken, rich cream, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal your family will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients:
- Pasta: 8 ounces of your favorite type (penne or fettuccine works well)
- Chicken Breast: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Spinach: 2 cups, fresh
- Salt & Pepper: to taste
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Red Pepper Flakes: a pinch (optional, for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
3. Add Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute. The aroma will be heavenly!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the cream thickens slightly. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Mix in the Cheese and Spinach
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and mix until melted and well incorporated. Then, fold in the fresh spinach and let it wilt in the sauce—this adds a vibrant color and a nutritional boost.
6. Combine with Pasta
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If you like, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
7. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the creamy chicken pasta to plates or a large serving bowl. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the compliments that will surely follow!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any busy schedule.
- Customizable: Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for even more flavor and nutrition.
- Deliciously Indulgent: The creamy sauce is rich, comforting, and absolutely irresistible.
In conclusion, this creamy chicken pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that is both simple to prepare and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table that the whole family will love. Give it a try—you won’t believe how easy it is!
