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Creamy Chicken Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pasta

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian Options Available

Description

This Creamy Chicken Pasta combines tender boneless chicken breast with a luscious, silky cream sauce made from heavy or plant-based cream, infused with fresh garlic and onions, and melted shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Perfectly cooked penne or fusilli pasta is tossed in this comforting sauce, finished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add brightness. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a quick, satisfying meal ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta

  • 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta

Dairy & Dairy Alternatives

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or basil), chopped

Seasonings & Others

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic cloves, and dice the onion. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream (or plant-based cream) and add the apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently over low heat. Gradually add the shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth, rich, and gooey.
  5. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything thoroughly so the pasta and chicken are fully coated with the creamy sauce. Heat for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil on top. Serve immediately for the best comforting and creamy experience.

Notes

  • Pound chicken evenly if needed to ensure uniform cooking and juicy pieces.
  • Use high-quality shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) for best melting and flavor.
  • Cook pasta just shy of preferred doneness; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with sauce.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to maintain a velvety texture and prevent curdling.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve aroma and vibrant color.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, easy chicken pasta, comfort food, mozzarella cheese pasta, quick dinner, creamy sauce pasta

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Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/creamy-chicken-pasta/