Transport your taste buds to the heart of Italy with our delectable Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta recipe! Bursting with rich flavors and creamy textures, this dish is a symphony of Italian-inspired ingredients that will leave you craving for more. Tender chicken breasts, aromatic garlic, fresh tomatoes, and savory Parmesan cheese come together in a luscious cream sauce that coats every strand of perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a cozy family dinner, or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the culinary magic of Italian cuisine!
Ingredients
Meat:
- 4 Chicken breasts, thin boneless skinless
Produce:
- 4 Garlic cloves
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- Parsley, for garnish
- 2 Scallions
- 2 Small tomatoes
- 1 Small yellow onion
Pasta & Grains:
- 12 oz Spaghetti or linguine
Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 9/16 cup All-purpose flour
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes
- 1 1/2 tsp Salt
Oils & Vinegars:
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
Dairy:
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Beer, Wine & Liquor:
- 1 cup Dry white wine
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until softened and fragrant. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine with Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them back to the skillet. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the creamy Italian chicken pasta with chopped tomatoes, sliced scallions, and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the tantalizing flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Enhance the dish with additional vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or shrimp for a delicious variation.
- Herb Substitutions: Feel free to use fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Creamy Sauce Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less heavy cream according to your preference.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Vegetable Pasta: Replace traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to keep the dish low in carbs.
- Cream Cheese Sauce: Use cream cheese instead of flour as a thickening agent for the sauce to make it keto-friendly.
Low-Carb Version:
- Cauliflower Rice: Serve the creamy Italian chicken over steamed or sautéed cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a low-carb alternative.
- Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free, low-carb version of the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for quick and easy cooking, you can certainly use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Q: Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce? A: White wine adds depth of flavor to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can omit it and substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the creamy Italian chicken pasta ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen and reheated, so it’s best to consume leftovers within a few days for the best taste and texture.
In conclusion, our Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta recipe is a celebration of Italian flavors and comfort food at its finest. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, entertaining guests, or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your appetite.
Experience the magic of Italian cuisine in your own kitchen with this deliciously creamy and satisfying pasta dish. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a gourmet meal that will impress your family and friends. So why wait? Get cooking and enjoy the taste of Italy tonight!
Savor every bite of this indulgent creamy Italian chicken pasta and let its irresistible flavors transport you to the charming streets of Italy. Buon appetito!
