This Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a heartwarming dish bursting with Italian flavors. Juicy, seasoned chicken combines beautifully with tender pasta and a luxurious garlic-Parmesan sauce. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach takes this dish to the next level. It’s quick, easy, and destined to become a weeknight favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Indulgent yet Simple: A creamy, flavorful meal that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make.
- Rich & Comforting: The garlic-Parmesan sauce wraps everything in a luscious, cheesy embrace.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this one is a winner.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this creamy masterpiece:
- Boneless Chicken Breasts: For tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken.
- Italian Seasoning: Infuses the chicken with classic herbs and spices.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and prevents sticking while cooking the chicken.
- Pasta: Penne or fettuccine work beautifully to hold all the creamy sauce.
- Butter & Garlic: The ultimate base for that flavorful sauce.
- Heavy Cream & Chicken Broth: For a rich, velvety consistency.
- Dried Oregano & Red Pepper Flakes: Bring a little earthy depth and optional heat.
- Parmesan Cheese: The star ingredient for that cheesy, savory goodness.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add tangy, slightly sweet bursts of flavor.
- Fresh Spinach: Wilts perfectly into the dish for a touch of green.
- Fresh Basil & Extra Parmesan: For garnish and a flavor boost at the end.
Note: Full ingredient measurements are located below in the recipe card!
How to Make Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, and stir in the oregano and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Veggies
Stir the Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it’s melted and creamy. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep it juicy by cooking it just until done.
- Save Some Pasta Water: A splash can help loosen the sauce if needed.
- Customize It: Add mushrooms, swap spinach for kale, or throw in your favorite veggies.
How to Serve
This pasta dish shines on its own, but here’s how you can pair it for a complete meal:
- Side Dish: Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
- Make it a Feast: Pair with roasted veggies or a Caprese salad for an Italian-inspired spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape, like bowtie, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
How do I lighten up the sauce? You can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely—skip the chicken and add extra spinach or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the pasta? Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it creamy.
Italian Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for Boiling Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts boneless, skinless, cut into strips
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt and black pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, crushed tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. Stir well.
- Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Let simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.