This Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce that brings everything together. It’s comfort food at its best, offering a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, this dish will surely become a favorite at your dining table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Chicken Pasta Recipe for its robust flavors and simplicity. The dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Plus, it fits beautifully into a busy lifestyle, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone looking to whip up something delicious in under 30 minutes.
Tips and Tricks
- Pasta Perfection: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente; this will help it maintain its texture when combined with the sauce.
- Flavor Boost: Sauté garlic and onion before adding chicken for an aromatic base; this step enhances the overall flavor.
- Chicken Choices: Use chicken thighs for a juicier option or breast meat for a leaner dish. If you’re in a hurry, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save you time.
- Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly; consider adding basil or parsley for a burst of freshness right before serving.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare several components in advance to make this Chicken Pasta Recipe even quicker. Cook and cool the pasta a day ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also marinate your chicken overnight to enhance flavor. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored for up to three days in the fridge. Just reheat before combining everything.
Recipe Variations
- Veggie-Loaded: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
- Different Sauces: Swap out the traditional marinara for pesto or Alfredo for a creamy twist.
- Spice it Up: Include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
How to Serve
Serve this Chicken Pasta in large bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for a touch of elegance. Pair it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to create a complete meal. For a beautiful presentation, consider placing a sprig of basil atop each serving.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs excellently with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemon soda complements the flavors wonderfully. As for side dishes, garlic bread and a Caesar salad work harmoniously, while a light dessert like lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Equipment Needed
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A skillet or sauté pan for cooking the chicken and sauce
- A cutting board and chef’s knife for prepping ingredients
- Tongs for easy pasta handling
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a plant-based cream for the sauce. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Dairy-free diets can be accommodated with non-dairy cheese or a nutritional yeast sprinkle for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, use fresh cherry tomatoes and basil for a light, refreshing dish. In the fall, consider incorporating butternut squash and sage for a heartier feel. During winter, roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts can add warmth and depth to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
- What pasta works best? Any pasta works, but penne or fusilli are great for holding onto sauce.
- How can I make this spicy? Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers to the sauce as it cooks.
Chicken Pasta
This Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce that brings everything together.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, stirring well. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine everything. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Dish out the pasta into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 270Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 52mgSodium 144mgCarbohydrates 21gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 23g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Pasta Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. With its easy preparation and delightful results, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Enjoy every bite!
