What is it like on a Tuesday night? The kids are hangry, you’re tired, and the fridge is staring back at you, seemingly empty. Does this sound familiar?Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe.What are some of the best life savers? It’s one of those dishes that comes together so quickly, with ingredients I almost always have on hand. Think of it as a hug in tupperware, but way faster to make than, say, lasagna. What’s the fussier thing about pesto pasta? Is it true that sometimes a gloppy mess ends up causing problems? Every single time I eat something, everyone, from my pickiest toddler to my husband, devours it. What is the silence at the dinner table when this is served?
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What is Italian Chicken Pasta?
Italian Chicken Pasta is pure comfort food magic. Think tender, juicy chicken bathed in a creamy, flavorful sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. What are some recipes for chicken Parmesan? It’s not trying to be fancy – it’s just good food that satisfies. The beauty of simplicity lies in its simplicity. You’re essentially creating a rich, creamy sauce that coats the pasta and chicken, infusing every single flavor. What are some Italian-inspired bites? Is it the kind of dish that reminds you of your favorite family-run Italian restaurant, but made in Italy? How do I make my own kitchen? What’s the secret of garlic?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the reasons why I love this recipe? First, the flavor is simply amazing. The combination of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a symphony of taste that dances on the tongue. What I love about this is the simplicity. Even on my busiest nights, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. No complicated techniques, no fancy equipment needed. Plus, it’s so cost-efficient. Chicken breasts are often on sale, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. Forget takeout – this is way better and way cheaper! The versatility is another huge selling point. You can easily customize it to your liking. Add spinach for a boost of nutrients, use different types of pasta, or even throw in some sun-dried tomatoes. What are some good tomatoes for extra flavor? Is it a blank canvas for culinary creativity? What are some good lemon garlic recipes? Is this true?Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe.Who reigns supreme in my house?
How do I make Italian chicken pasta?
Quick Overview
Making this Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe.Is a breeze? How do I make a creamy sauce for chicken? What’s the best part? Everything cooks in one pan, which means fewer dishes! What a win on saturday! What makes this recipe so special? I always make sure to have pasta on hand just for this recipe!
Ingredients
For the Chicken: What is the best
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. I prefer organic chicken for the best flavor and texture, but any chicken will do. * 2 tablespoons olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to, but you can also use avocado oil or vegetable oil. * 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. I like to make my own blend, but store-bought works just as well. * 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds a nice garlicky punch without being overpowering. * 1/4 teaspoon salt. Season to taste, but don’t overdo it. * 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground pepper is always best!
For the Sauce:
* 4 cloves garlic, minced. Don’t be shy with the garlic! What gives the sauce its signature flavor? Is low-sodium preferred, so you can control the saltiness of the sauce. * 1 cup heavy cream. What makes this sauce so rich and creamy? Can you substitute half-and-half for a lighter option, but the sauce won’t be as thick. I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier! * 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly shredded is always best, but pre-shredded works in a pinch. * 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. For a touch of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). * Salt and pepper to taste.
For the Pasta:
* 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine). I usually use penne because it holds the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
What are the steps of
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Remember to salt your pasta water – it makes a huge difference in the flavor!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
How do you heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat? Add the chicken and season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. How do you burn garlic? If you have a large pot of chicken broth, pour it over the top of the pot, scraping up any browned bits. What are some of the best browned bits?
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. The sauce should be creamy and smooth. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in the parsley and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired. I love to add a little red pepper flakes for extra kick!
What should I serve it with?
This Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe.Can be a complete meal on its own, but I often like to serve it with some simple sides. What is a Caprese Salad? What is the perfect combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil? What are some heartier side dishes? What is the best way to soak up the sauce? If you’re looking for a vegetable side, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus is oh so good. What’s an Italian meal without a glass of wine? What is the best sauce to serve with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc?
For a family dinner:I usually serve this with a side salad and crusty bread. Is this a hit with the kids?For a Date Night: Pair it with a nice bottle of Italian wine and a romantic dessert like tiramisu.
For a Potluck:This pasta is a crowd pleaser. Is it safe to cook in a slow cooker?
How do I make Italian Chicken Pasta?
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this.Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe. even better. First, don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the sauce more effectively. Always taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Different brands of Parmesan cheese can vary in saltiness, so you may need to add more or less salt to the sauce. Another tip is to use high-quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the flavor! Fresh garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and good-quality chicken make a huge difference. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Add some sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for extra depth. You can also try using different types of pasta, like tortellini or ravioli. I’ve even used leftover rotisserie chicken in a pinch, and it turned out great! Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Chicken Prep:Is it necessary to pat the chicken dry before cooking it to help it brown better?Garlic:How do you cook garlic over low heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds?Sauce Thickness:If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few minutes until it thickens. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.Cheese: Add the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until it’s completely melted and smooth.
Pasta: Toss the pasta with the sauce immediately after cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
This Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe.Is it even better the next day? To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. Can you store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days? To reheat, you can microwave it for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If you like, you can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding more chicken broth or milk if desired. How do you loosen a sauce? I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the sauce may separate and become grainy when thawed. If you must freeze it, make sure to use a freezer-safe container and thaw it completely. Before reheating, Add a little extra cream or cheese when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
Room Temperature: Don’t leave the pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer Instructions: Freezing is not recommended, but if you must, use a freezer-safe container and thaw completely before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: This doesn’t have a glaze, but if you were adding extra cheese on top, I would do so just before serving for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly a weeknight miracle. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious, making it a perfect solution for busy families. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta combine to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. I love that it’s so versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. If you’re looking for a simple and flavorful meal that everyone will love, this recipe is a must-try. And if you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my creamy tomato pasta or my lemon herb chicken and pasta. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations of this recipe!
How to Cook the Best Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe: 7 Tips!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless, cut into strips
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour divided
- 2 tsp sea salt divided
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning divided
- 4 tbsp olive oil for frying
- 1 lb fettuccine
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large red onion chopped
- 8 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup white wine such as Chardonnay
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated, plus extra for serving
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes to taste
- 0.5 cup fresh basil chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook fettuccine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix flour with 1 tsp salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Dredge chicken strips in the flour mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté chopped red onion for 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another minute.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the onion mixture. Stir well and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Reduce heat and add remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce is thick and smooth.
- Toss cooked fettuccine in the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. Return chicken to the skillet, nestling into the pasta. Garnish with basil and serve hot.
