🍽 Introduction:
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta — especially when it’s loaded with juicy chicken, aromatic herbs, and a silky, velvety sauce that clings to every bite. Creamy Chicken Pasta Bliss lives up to its name, blending richness, flavor, and satisfaction into one unforgettable dish. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when you simply crave a cozy meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
🧾 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or penne pasta
- Salt (for pasta water)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🍳 Instructions & Methods:
🔪 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 75°C).
- Rest and Slice: Remove chicken from skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
💡 Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — sear in batches if needed to get that golden crust.
🍝 Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Drain & Set Aside: Drain and toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
🧄 Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
- Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits (flavor gold!).
- Add Dairy: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and milk. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes.
- Cheese & Seasoning: Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes (if using). Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust salt/pepper as needed.
💡 Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir often for a smooth, luscious texture.
🍲 Step 4: Combine Everything
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Add Chicken: Return sliced chicken to the pan. Stir gently to combine.
- Final Touches: Let everything simmer together for 2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
🌿 Step 5: Serve
- Plate the pasta in warm bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a bit of extra Parmesan.
- Serve immediately with warm garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
🧡 Optional Upgrade: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
🍷 Suggested Pairing:
Pair with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a crisp sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing balance.
❤️ Final Note:
Creamy Chicken Pasta Bliss is all about balance — rich without being heavy, comforting without being complicated. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish promises to deliver that warm, homemade goodness with every bite.
Bon appétit!