Indulge in the exquisite simplicity of 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish that balances sumptuous flavors with effortless preparation. The creaminess of the sauce envelops tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a symphony of textures and aromas. This dish stands apart from everyday pasta recipes, offering an elevated dining experience that is both swift and sophisticated.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Perfect for a weeknight meal or an impromptu gathering, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality satisfaction without the fuss.
- Minimal Ingredients: Utilizing a concise list of pantry staples, this dish is accessible yet indulgent.
- Impressive Flavor: The blend of garlic, herbs, and cream transforms simple chicken and pasta into a gourmet creation that enchants the palate.
Ingredients
Base
- 8 oz. fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 lb. chicken breast, diced (preferably organic for quality)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp. room temperature butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp. fresh thyme, finely chopped
Topping
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How to Make 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter. Once melted, add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Carefully deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the pan. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Stir in the thyme, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and prepare for plating.
How to Serve 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta
For an elegant presentation, place a generous serving of creamy pasta in a shallow bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a fine grating of extra Parmesan. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top adds a refined touch. Serve with a side of crusty artisan bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
How to Store 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta
To maintain the dish’s creamy texture, allow it to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between the pasta and the lid to prevent sticking. Refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
Tips to Make 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Control the Heat: Cook the chicken on medium heat to ensure a golden exterior while keeping the meat juicy.
- Infuse Flavor: Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after deglazing for an extra layer of flavor.
- Finish with Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
- Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly; consider basil or parsley for added depth.
Variation
For a luxe twist, substitute the chicken for sautéed shrimp or scallops. You may also incorporate seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus or peas, for added color and nutrition. For a touch of elegance, serve the pasta in individual ramekins topped with a crispy Parmesan crust.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To transform this into a vegetarian delight, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Is it possible to make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the cream sauce can be prepared in advance. Store it separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta and protein just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Conclusion
The 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta is a celebration of elegance in simplicity, achieving a fine dining experience in mere moments. Its luxurious flavors envelop the senses, creating a memorable meal perfect for any occasion. Share your thoughts or variations in the comments below, and connect with fellow culinary enthusiasts. How would you make this dish your own?
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30-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish that balances sumptuous flavors with effortless preparation, featuring tender chicken in a creamy sauce with perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 lb. chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp. room temperature butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp. fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter and allow it to melt. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping any browned bits.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the pan, gently tossing everything until the pasta is coated in the sauce. Stir in the thyme and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately with a garnish of fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after deglazing. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg