Introduction

Ever crave a comforting, protein-packed pasta dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this classic pasta with chicken—a crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant flavors. For those seeking a richer twist, a creamy chicken pasta variation adds luxurious texture. Ideal for busy evenings or casual dinners, this recipe balances simplicity and satisfaction.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

• • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or bowtie)
• • 2 chicken breasts (or thighs), diced
• • 2 tbsp olive oil
• • 3 garlic cloves, minced
• • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• • 1 cup spinach
• • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
• • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• • Salt, pepper, & red pepper flakes to taste
• • Tools: Large skillet, pot, colander, tongs.

Prep & Cook Time

• • Prep Time: 10 minutes
• • Cook Time: 20 minutes
• • Total Time: 30 minutes
• • Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. • Cook pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. • Sauté chicken: Heat oil in a skillet. Season chicken, then cook until golden (6–8 minutes).
3. • Add aromatics: Stir in garlic, tomatoes, and spinach until softened.
4. • Combine & finish: Toss pasta into the skillet with cream and Parmesan. For a pasta with chicken base, stop here. To make it a decadent creamy chicken pasta, add an extra splash of cream and simmer for 2 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits / Advantages

This dish delivers 35g protein per serving from chicken, complex carbs from pasta, and antioxidants from veggies. Homemade versions reduce sodium and preservatives compared to store-bought sauces.

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

• • Protein swap: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
• • Low-carb: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles.
• • Seasonal twist: Add roasted pumpkin in fall or asparagus in spring.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• • Overcooking chicken: Leads to dryness. Cook just until internal temp reaches 165°F.
• • Skipping pasta water: The starchy liquid helps sauces cling to noodles.
• • Overcrowding the pan: Brown chicken in batches for even searing.

Storage / Maintenance Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to revive creaminess.

Conclusion

Whether you stick to a light, garlicky pasta with chicken or indulge in a velvety creamy chicken pasta, this recipe guarantees a stress-free dinner win. Share your creations in the comments or tag us on social media!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes—thaw completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

Q: How do I freeze leftovers?
A: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free creamy?
A: Absolutely! Use cashew cream or blended silken tofu.

Q: How can I stretch servings for a crowd?
A: Add 1 cup of cooked white beans or extra roasted veggies.