Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that checks all the “comfort food” boxes while delivering serious flavor and creamy, dreamy goodness, you’ll love this Creamy Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken, a luscious parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine come together in just one pan for a weeknight dinner that feels seriously special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s beautiful about Creamy Chicken Pasta is how approachable the ingredient list is—each element plays a starring role, building layers of flavor and a sauce you’ll want to eat with a spoon. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few handy tips for making every ingredient shine.

• Linguine: The long, flat shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, but feel free to swap in spaghetti or fettuccine if that’s what you have.
• All-purpose flour: Used to coat the chicken for a golden crust, while also helping thicken the sauce slightly.
• Table salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce throughout.
• Garlic powder & smoked paprika: Add warmth, depth, and a subtle smokiness to every bite.
• A pinch of cayenne (optional): For just a whisper of heat—totally customizable based on your spice comfort zone!
• Chicken breast: Lean, juicy, and the perfect canvas for all that creamy, cheesy flavor.
• Olive oil & butter: Searing the chicken in this combo creates a gorgeous golden crust and a buttery undertone in the sauce.
• Yellow onion: Sautéed onion builds a savory-sweet foundation.
• Minced garlic: Just the right amount for that classic, soul-warming aroma.
• Chicken broth: Adds body and depth to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cream.
• Heavy cream: The secret to the luxurious, ultra-creamy sauce that clings to every noodle.
• Italian seasoning: An easy way to infuse herby flavor—use your favorite blend.
• Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and a must for finishing off the sauce with loads of umami.
• Fresh parsley: Completely optional but makes for a fresh, eye-catching garnish.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Creamy Chicken Pasta is how easy it is to customize! Don’t be afraid to mix things up based on what you have in your kitchen, your dietary needs, or whatever flavors you’re craving tonight.

• Swap the Protein: Feel like seafood? Use shrimp instead of chicken, or try sliced turkey or even chunks of Italian sausage.
• Go Veggie-Full: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or peas to amp up the color and nutrition.
• Lighter Dairy: Trade heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk if you want a slightly lighter (but still creamy) result.
• Change Up the Pasta: If linguine isn’t handy, penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free noodles work beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Drop in your linguine and cook until just al dente—the pasta will finish in the creamy sauce later, soaking up all that flavor. If the pasta is ready before the sauce, toss it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season and Dredge the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, whisk together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Rub this spice blend all over your chicken breasts for a gorgeous color and flavor, then dredge each piece in flour—they’ll get a lovely golden crust when seared.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken, making sure the pieces don’t touch. Cook until each side is beautifully golden and cooked through (about 2–3 minutes per side). Transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Build the Flavors

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent; this creates a sweet, aromatic base. Toss in the garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds—your kitchen is about to smell amazing!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Slowly add the chicken broth, scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom (those are major flavor bombs!). Pour in the heavy cream, remaining salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir in freshly grated parmesan and let the sauce simmer until it thickens to a silky, spoon-coating consistency. Taste and add extra seasoning if you like.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Return the pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together so the linguine is coated and the chicken is nestled in that luscious sauce. Let everything simmer for just a few minutes, then serve straight from the pan—don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten things up!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A shower of fresh parsley is always a classic, but don’t hesitate to add a pinch of extra parmesan or even a little lemon zest for brightness. Cracked black pepper or a dash of red chili flakes can also wake up the whole dish.

Side Dishes

I love serving Creamy Chicken Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar. For something heartier, pair it with warm garlic bread, roasted broccoli, or blistered green beans to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow factor, twirl each serving onto plates and top with a perfectly sliced chicken breast, sprinkling garnishes over the top. You can also pile everything into a big family-style dish, letting everyone help themselves at the table for a cozy, abundant vibe. Mini cast iron skillets make individual portions feel restaurant-worthy, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken Pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge. Just let it cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container—it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making a fantastic next-day lunch.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but for best texture, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently—cream sauces may separate a bit but a good stir brings it back to life.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce, stirring frequently until warmed through and creamy again. The microwave works too; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring often.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to dig into this Creamy Chicken Pasta—there’s something magic about swirling perfectly sauced noodles and savoring that golden, juicy chicken in every bite. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself, this is comfort food that deserves a regular spot at your table. Enjoy every creamy, cozy forkful!

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