Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta

The Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta is one of those comforting dishes that can whisk you away to a cozy Italian bistro without having to leave your kitchen. I still remember the first time I made it; the aroma of the melting butter combined with the sautéing vegetables filled my kitchen, making my family curious about what was cooking. As I stirred in the creamy sauce with the freshly cooked pasta, I could see their eyes light up with anticipation. This dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy and savory, with tender pieces of chicken and colorful bell peppers adding both flavor and a lovely presentation. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish never fails to impress. You can easily modify it to suit your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection!

Everything You Need for Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta

The ingredients in this recipe are simple yet flavorful. Each one plays an important role in creating the creamy and satisfying experience that defines the Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta. The combination of tender chicken, bell peppers, and a rich sauce makes this dish a standout meal. Let’s dive into the key players:

• 12 ounces rotini pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is creamy.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized cubes, they cook quickly and remain juicy in the sauce.
• 1 small green bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a slight crunch.
• 1 small red bell pepper: Sweet and vibrant, complementing the other ingredients.
• 2 cups half and half: The base of the creamy sauce, providing richness without being too heavy.
• 1/2 cup butter: Adds a depth of flavor and helps in creating the sauce.
• 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: This cheese enhances the creaminess and adds a savory kick.
• 1 teaspoon chives or green onions: Optional but recommended for a fresh garnish.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a touch of earthiness to balance the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the dish with its aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.

Cooking Instructions for Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta

Cooking Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these detailed steps to create a dish that will surely satisfy your cravings!

1. Start by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt, and bringing it to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about eight to ten minutes, until al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

2. While the pasta cooks, take a large pan and grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Heat the pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the cubed chicken and both the diced green and red bell peppers. Sauté them together until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about five to seven minutes. The peppers should be tender but not mushy. If you prefer a little crunch, wait a couple of minutes before adding the peppers.

3. Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer the mixture to a bowl and set aside. In the same pan, reduce the heat slightly, and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

4. After the butter has melted, pour in the half and half. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring it to a low simmer. You’ll notice the sauce starting to bubble gently. Let it cook for about five to eight minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

5. Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese, minced chives or green onions, oregano, basil, and salt. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy consistency.

6. Add the cooked chicken and bell peppers back into the pan with the sauce. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is well coated in the creamy sauce.

7. Next, add the drained rotini pasta to the pan. Carefully stir everything together so that the sauce envelops the pasta thoroughly. Make sure each piece of pasta gets its fair share of that delicious sauce.

8. At this point, you can taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like more creaminess, feel free to add a splash more of half and half or a bit more cheese.

9. Finally, serve your Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta hot, garnishing with more Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy each creamy bite!

Expert Tips about Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta

To get the most out of your Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta, check out these expert tips that can elevate your dish.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of half and half to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so before adding the half and half. Freeze the cooked pasta and chicken mixture separately. When ready to eat, thaw and add the sauce.
• Pairing: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the dish for added nutrition.
• Leftover Chicken: Use leftover chicken from a previous meal to save time on prep.
• Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried for a more vibrant flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your meal.
• Wine: A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs nicely with this creamy dish.
• Family Gatherings: This pasta can easily serve a crowd, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Seasonal Variations: Incorporate seasonal vegetables to keep the dish fresh and exciting throughout the year.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta is truly special because it combines rich flavors with beloved ingredients, creating a dish that delights everyone at the table. I encourage you to try it for your next family dinner or weeknight meal. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken and colorful bell peppers in a rich, creamy sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family. Why not make it tonight?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Saucepan
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

  

• 12 ounces Rotini pasta
• 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 small Green bell pepper diced small
• 1 small Red bell pepper diced small
• 2 cups Half and half
• 1/2 cup Butter (4oz)
• 3/4 cup Shredded Parmesan cheese plus more for topping
• 1 teaspoon Chives or green onions minced, optional
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

 

• In a large pot, boil water for pasta. Salt lightly and add rotini. Cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• While pasta cooks, grease a large pan with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil, and over medium heat, cook chicken and peppers together until chicken is cooked through and peppers are tender. If you prefer crunchier peppers, add them to your chicken after 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer chicken and veggies to a bowl and set aside.
• In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat and add the half and half. Bring to a low simmer and allow to cook until it has reduced down and thickened just slightly, about 5 to 8 min. Remove from heat and add Parmesan, chives or green onions, oregano, basil, and salt.
• Add chicken back to the pan with the sauce, pour in the drained noodles, stir and serve. Top with more Parmesan if desired.

Notes

• You can substitute: 2/3 cup heavy cream + 1 1/3 cup milk (any percentage) for the half and half.
• Optimal Timing: Put water on to boil and cut chicken and veggies and measure out the rest of your ingredients. Begin cooking the chicken and peppers and then add your noodles to the boiling water after 2 or 3 minutes.
• Preparation Tip: If you have everything cut and prepared in advance, the rotini and sauce should finish at almost the same time.

Keyword Chicken Pasta, Creamy Pasta Recipe, Easy Chicken Pasta, Weeknight Dinner

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.