Creamy Chicken Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, rich cream, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The total time required is approximately 25 minutes, including prep and cooking.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
• Different Proteins: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or turkey for a different protein option.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or feta for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Creamy Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor.
2. What type of pasta is best?
   Penne and rigatoni work well as they hold onto the creamy sauce nicely.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
4. How do I know when the pasta is cooked perfectly?
   Cook the pasta until al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
   It’s best not to freeze creamy pasta dishes, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
6. What can I serve this dish with?
   Garlic bread or a fresh salad complements this pasta beautifully.
7. Can I add more sauce?
   Yes, you can increase the amounts of cream and cheese for a creamier sauce.
8. How do I add flavor?
   You can add a splash of lemon juice or zest for brightness.
9. Is this dish healthy?
   While rich, it can be balanced with the addition of vegetables.
10. What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?
    Add a little cream or broth when reheating to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that’s easy to whip up in a short amount of time. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner or serve it for guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy!

Print