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Creamy chicken pasta with tender chicken fillets in a rich white sauce, served with rotini pasta.
Inga

Creamy Chicken Pasta

This easy Creamy Chicken Pasta combines tender seasoned chicken, short pasta, Parmesan, and a rich creamy white sauce. It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a comforting and satisfying dinner for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 990

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 14 oz short pasta, such as rotini, fusilli, or penne (400 g)
  • 1 tsp salt, for the pasta water
  • Small drizzle of oil, optional
For the Chicken
  • 1.1 lb 2 chicken breasts, sliced into thin fillets or strips (500 g)
  • cup vegetable oil (79 ml)
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Vegetable seasoning, to taste
  • Additional seasonings of your choice, to taste
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cups heavy cream or cooking cream (500 ml)
  • ¾ cup water (200 ml)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
For Serving
  • Additional grated Parmesan, optional
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, optional

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Large deep skillet
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Sharp knife
  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the salt. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta: Drain well and return the pasta to the pot. Toss with a very small drizzle of oil if needed to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.
  3. Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, slice the chicken breasts into thin, evenly sized fillets or strips.
  4. Season the chicken: Place the chicken in a large bowl. Add the vegetable oil, black pepper, garlic powder, vegetable seasoning, and any additional seasonings you like. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
  5. Cook the chicken: Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken together with the seasoned oil and arrange it in an even layer. Cook until golden on one side, then turn and continue cooking until lightly browned and fully cooked.
  6. Make the creamy sauce: Pour the heavy cream and water into the skillet with the chicken. Add the grated Parmesan and stir until well combined and the cheese begins to melt.
  7. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth, warm, and slightly thickened.
  8. Serve: Divide the cooked pasta between plates and spoon the creamy chicken and plenty of sauce over the top.
  9. Garnish: Finish with extra grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so it cooks at the same rate.
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken so it stays tender and juicy.
  • The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of water or cream.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Rotini, fusilli, penne, or another short pasta shape works well because it holds the creamy sauce nicely.
  • Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
  • A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or homemade bread makes a great side dish.