Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, providing a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
8 oz penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 15 minutes, making the total time around 25 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetable Addition: Toss in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative to make it dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use raw chicken instead?
   Yes, you can use raw chicken. Cook it thoroughly before adding the garlic and following the recipe.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
   Half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter can be used as a lighter alternative.
3. How do I know when the pasta is done?
   Check the package instructions for cooking time and taste a piece to see if it’s al dente.
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce.
5. What other pasta shapes can I use?
   Any pasta shape will work, such as fettuccine, fusilli, or spaghetti.
6. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
7. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of Parmesan or add other cheeses like mozzarella.
8. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
   Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just store the portions separately to maintain the best texture.
9. What can I serve with this dish?
   A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this pasta well.
10. How can I enhance the flavor?
    Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be added for an aromatic touch.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a deliciously rich and satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a meal solo, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy each creamy, flavorful bite!

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