Welcome to my cozy little kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share one of my family’s absolute favorites: Creamy Chicken Pasta. This dish has been a staple in our home for years, and let me tell you, it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. There’s something about the rich, creamy sauce combined with tender chicken that just makes everyone feel right at home.
It all started a few years ago when I wanted to create a quick and easy meal for a busy weeknight. With two kids running around and a thousand things on my to-do list, I needed something that would come together quickly without skimping on flavor. I started experimenting with what I had on hand—chicken, pasta, and some spices I found in the pantry. After a few tries, I landed on this creamy, cheesy goodness that even my picky eaters love.
This dish is not just easy to prepare; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can tweak the seasonings to suit your family’s tastes or add in seasonal veggies for an extra pop of color and nutrition. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers—if you have some cooked chicken lying around, just toss it in, and you’re good to go!
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your immediate family, this Creamy Chicken Pasta is sure to impress. With its comforting flavors and creamy texture, I guarantee it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust based on preference)
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2/3 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- Salt (for pasta water)
Directions
Start by boiling a large pot of water seasoned with salt. Cook the linguine according to the directions on the package until it’s nice and al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water before you drain it. Keep the pasta covered to stay warm.
While the pasta is cooking, flatten your chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. Rub the Cajun seasoning all over the chicken to give it a flavorful kick.
In a skillet heated over medium-high, add the olive oil and cook the chicken until each side is golden brown. Once browned, turn down the heat and keep cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through, reaching at least 165°F. Once done, remove from the heat, slice it into strips, and keep it covered on a plate.
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until you start to smell its wonderful aroma. Next, add the diced tomatoes and let them cook for about 2 minutes.
Now, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning alongside the grated Parmesan. Keep stirring until the sauce starts to simmer, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
Add your cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet, tossing everything together so it’s nicely coated in that creamy goodness. If your sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to incorporate a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
To serve, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to make your family feel cherished!
Storing Suggestion
This Creamy Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water to bring back the sauce’s original consistency, if needed.
Cooking Tips
If you’re looking to enhance the dish further, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or some cooked spinach for added nutrition. You can also try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and a glass of white wine. You might also serve it with crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick for those who enjoy some heat!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of Cajun seasoning, try substituting it with a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, and some oregano for a similar flavor profile. You can also use other types of pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti for a different twist.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, consider adding fresh zucchini or bell peppers into the sauce for a colorful and seasonal touch. In the fall, swap the tomatoes for roasted pumpkin or squash, which would add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy from the cream and cheese. For a dairy-free version, opt for coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Make sure to check for any gluten in your pasta if you have sensitivities.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just store the components separately in the fridge and combine them right before serving, warming everything through together.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way to check is with a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the juices run clear and there’s no pink inside.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first before cooking. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking, which is not safe.
Is this dish spicy?
The dish has a bit of heat from the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the amount to your taste. If you prefer it milder, start with less seasoning and gradually add more once you taste it.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water or some additional cream until you reach your preferred consistency.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy substitute such as cashew cream or coconut cream if you want a lighter or dairy-free version.
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts skinless
- 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning divided, adjust to taste
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2/3 cup tomatoes diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons parsley finely chopped (for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt for pasta water
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, then reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Flatten the chicken breasts and rub with Cajun seasoning. Cook in olive oil until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes, then stir in heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning and parmesan.
- Toss the cooked pasta and sliced chicken with the sauce, adjusting thickness with reserved pasta water if needed. Serve garnished with parsley and extra parmesan.