Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Introduction

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. With the added flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, this recipe is both comforting and delicious, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup spinach leaves, fresh
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions

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 and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest, then slice into thin strips.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach leaves, cooking until the spinach wilts.
4. Combine and Serve:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet, stirring to combine everything.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
   Serve the Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different protein.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
• Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or ricotta for a different cheese flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, any pasta type can work; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free? You can use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I make it ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then combine with cooked pasta when ready to serve.
4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? Ensure to simmer gently and avoid boiling after adding the cream.
5. What can I serve this dish with? A side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this pasta.
6. Can I freeze this dish? It’s best not to freeze as the cream may separate when thawed.
7. What other vegetables can I add? Bell peppers, broccoli, or asparagus work well in this dish.
8. How spicy is this dish? The red pepper flakes are optional; you can adjust the amount to your preference.
9. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free? You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a versatile and satisfying dish that will please anyone at your dinner table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you choose to customize it with different ingredients or enjoy it as is, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet delicious enough for special occasions. Enjoy your cooking!

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