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Quick and Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe

This delicious pasta dish combines tender chicken with a creamy Parmesan sauce and a pop of flavor from cherry tomatoes. It's perfect for beginners or busy individuals looking for a tasty, balanced meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 490 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

Pasta & Grains

  • 8 oz Dried pasta (penne or fusilli) [225 g]

Meat

  • 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes [450 g]

Produce

  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved [150 g]
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves roughly torn [10 g]

Dairy

  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream [120 ml]
  • 1/3 cup Grated Parmesan cheese [30 g]

Oils & Vinegars

  • 2 Tablespoons Olive oil [30 ml]

Baking & Spices

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook Pasta and Prepare Ingredients

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  • While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook Chicken and Make Sauce

  • Add chicken cubes to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  • Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in heavy cream and add halved cherry tomatoes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until tomatoes start to soften.
  • Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.

Combine and Serve

  • Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the sauce.
  • Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Feel free to use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save even more time.
- This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful ingredients.
- Sprinkle some extra torn basil leaves on top for a fresh, green contrast.
- Add a small wedge of lemon on the side for those who enjoy a hint of citrus.
- Pair with a simple side salad of mixed greens for added nutrition and color on the plate.
Keyword Chicken Pasta, Marry Me