This Indulgent Chicken Pasta with Creamy Italian Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Garnished with fresh basil, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
📋 Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, sliced)
- 300g pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat .
- Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes , flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic for 1–2 minutes , stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance the flavor.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes , allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried basil , mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained pasta . Toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot. Enjoy every indulgent bite of this creamy, flavorful dish!
Tips for Success
- Pasta Choice: Penne or spaghetti work beautifully, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
- Cheese Options: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting texture—pre-grated cheese may not incorporate as smoothly.
- Add Veggies: Boost nutrition by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
- Freezing: Freeze the sauce and chicken separately (without the pasta) for up to 3 months . Avoid freezing cooked pasta as it can become mushy when thawed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Indulgent Chicken Pasta with Creamy Italian Sauce is pure comfort in a bowl. The velvety sauce, infused with Parmesan and dried basil, clings to every strand of pasta and piece of chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s quick, easy, and packed with rich, satisfying goodness, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal or looking to impress guests, this dish delivers big on flavor and elegance. Dive into this creamy masterpiece and let its indulgence warm your soul!
