Easy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Chicken pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that can be enjoyed by both beginners and experienced cooks. If you love the taste of chicken and pasta, then this is the perfect dish for you. It can be prepared with a variety of ingredients and can be served in many different ways. Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a meal for a group of friends, this dish will definitely impress.

In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make chicken pasta. We’ll cover everything from the ingredients you need to the cooking time, so you’ll be able to make a perfect chicken pasta dish every time. This recipe is great for those who are looking for a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in under an hour. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!

Ingredients for Chicken Pasta Dish

Now that you know a little bit more about this delightful Italian dish, it’s time to dive into the ingredients that you will need to make your chicken pasta absolutely delicious. Here is a detailed list of the essential ingredients that you will need to collect:

1. Chicken Breasts

The chicken breasts are the base of your pasta recipe. You should have about two to four chicken breasts, depending on how many servings you wish to make. Simply slice them into small pieces and set them aside.

2. Pasta

Pasta is the next important ingredient on this list since it is the main ingredient that brings the dish together. There are different types of pasta that you may want to consider, such as penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine. Choose the type that you like the most and will suit your dish.

3. Olive Oil

Olive oil is the preferred oil when it comes to Italian cooking. It not only adds flavor but is also healthy. Use about 2 tablespoons of olive oil for this recipe, or more depending on your preference.

4. Garlic and Onion

Garlic and onion are the staples of any good pasta dish. You should chop up at least two garlic cloves and an onion to add to your dish.

5. Tomatoes

Tomatoes add a rich taste to your chicken pasta dish. You can chop up fresh tomatoes or use canned ones. Don’t forget to remove the seeds before chopping them.

6. Cheese

Cheese is an optional but delicious ingredient. Add grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese to your pasta dish to taste. Cheese is what we made for!

7. Salt and Pepper

Seasoning your dish is essential. Add salt and pepper to your pasta according to your taste.

8. Mixed Herbs

Mixed herbs, like oregano or basil, add more flavor and a beautiful aroma to your dish. Try adding about a teaspoon of mixed herbs to your dish.

9. Red Chili Flakes

Red chili flakes add a little bit of spice to your dish. They are optional but greatly enhance flavor, so consider using them.

10. Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is the final item on our list. Adding about a cup of chicken broth to your pasta recipe is what makes all the difference in taste. It’s an excellent way of making your dish rich and flavorful.

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking!

Before You Start Cooking

Making chicken pasta might seem simple, but there are some things you should do before you start cooking to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

1. Choose the Right Pasta

The key to a great chicken pasta is choosing the right type of pasta. Different types of pasta pair well with different sauces and ingredients. For chicken pasta, it’s best to use short and hollow pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. This is because the hollow shape helps to hold the sauce and bits of chicken for a more satisfying bite.

2. Pre-cook the Chicken

To save time and ensure your chicken is cooked evenly, it’s best to pre-cook it before adding it to the pasta. You can chop the chicken into small pieces and cook it in a pan with a bit of oil until it’s no longer pink. You can also cook it in the oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

3. Use Fresh Herbs and Spices

Fresh herbs and spices can take your chicken pasta to the next level. Instead of using dried herbs and spices, try using fresh basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary. You can also add some red pepper flakes for a bit of spice.

4. Have All Ingredients Prepared

Before you start cooking, make sure that all of your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This will save you time and prevent any mishaps while cooking. Chop your vegetables, measure out any spices or herbs you’ll be using, and have your pasta cooked and drained.

5. Cook Pasta Al Dente

When cooking pasta for chicken pasta, it’s important to cook it al dente. This means that the pasta should be cooked until it’s firm but not hard. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the texture of your dish. Test the pasta frequently while cooking to ensure that it’s the right texture.

6. Reserve Some Pasta Water

When draining the pasta, be sure to reserve around a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be used to thicken the sauce later on if it’s too thin. You can also use it to help distribute the sauce evenly throughout the pasta.

7. Use a Good Quality Sauce

The sauce is what ties everything together in a chicken pasta dish, so it’s crucial to use a good quality sauce. You can use a store-bought sauce, but making your own sauce is easy and allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. Use a tomato-based sauce for a classic chicken pasta, or experiment with different flavors like garlic or alfredo.

8. Don’t Forget the Cheese

Cheese is another ingredient that can elevate your chicken pasta. Parmesan, mozzarella, and feta are all great options. Add the cheese to the pasta just before serving so that it melts and evenly coats the pasta.

9. Mix the Pasta and Sauce in a Large Pan

When it’s time to mix the pasta and sauce, use a large pan instead of a small saucepan. This will make it easier to evenly coat the pasta with the sauce. Allow the pasta and sauce to cook together for a few minutes so that the flavors can meld together.

10. Garnish and Serve

Once everything is ready, it’s time to serve your chicken pasta! Add any garnishes you like, such as fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot. Your family and friends are sure to enjoy this delicious and hearty meal.

Ingredients for Chicken Pasta

Making a delicious chicken pasta dish requires certain ingredients that you cannot do without. Here are the essential ingredients you need to prepare your chicken pasta:

Preparing and Cooking Chicken Pasta

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start the preparation process. Here is how you can make the best chicken pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and add some salt for flavor. Bring the water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook it following the instructions on the package or until it is al dente, which means cooked but still firm to the bite.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken by seasoning it with salt and pepper. Then, heat the butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss together until the sauce is fully mixed in with the pasta. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them to the pasta. Stir together to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish, garnish the chicken pasta with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Conclusion

Making chicken pasta at home is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy a classic Italian dish in the comfort of your own home. By following these simple steps and using the right ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please your friends and family. Experiment with different sauces, spices, and herbs until you find the perfect recipe that suits your taste buds.

That’s It – Enjoy Your Chicken Pasta!

Cooking can be a fun and enjoyable experience, especially when you’re creating dishes that are easy to make and taste delicious. We hope our simple chicken pasta recipe has provided you with inspiration for your next cooking adventure. Remember, practice makes perfect, and you can always add your own personal touch to this recipe to make it even more special. Thanks for reading, and we look forward to seeing you again for more food inspiration!