Easy Pasta Recipes with Chicken

As the sun sets, your stomach growls, reminding you it’s time to eat. But cooking a big meal after a long day seems hard. Don’t worry, I’ve got the answer – easy pasta recipes with chicken that will make you feel good fast.

Here, you’ll find quick and tasty chicken pasta dishes perfect for weeknights. From a 20-minute garlic butter chicken pasta to creamy Parmesan dishes, these recipes are easy and full of flavor. Imagine eating tender chicken with noodles, all in a smooth sauce. It’s so good, you’ll want more, even if you’re full.

Let’s explore how to make these easy, comforting, and delicious chicken pasta dishes. You’ll impress your loved ones with your cooking skills. And you’ll enjoy a meal that’s quick and satisfying. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Understanding the Basics of Chicken and Pasta Combinations

Chicken and pasta together make a classic dish that everyone loves. You can use different pasta types with various chicken cuts. This lets you try many tasty dishes in your kitchen.

Types of Pasta Best Suited for Chicken Dishes

Choosing the right pasta is important for a great chicken dish. Here are some top pasta types for chicken:

• Spaghetti: Its long, thin shape is perfect for chicken and sauces.
• Fettuccine: This wide, flat pasta is great with chicken, especially in creamy sauces.
• Penne: Penne’s tube shape is perfect for holding onto rich chicken sauces.

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts

The chicken cut you pick can change your dish a lot. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They are tender and flavorful, matching well with pasta.

Essential Kitchen Tools and Equipment

To make tasty chicken and pasta dishes, you need some basic tools:

1. A big pot for boiling pasta
2. A skillet or sauté pan for cooking chicken
3. A cheese grater for Parmesan or other hard cheeses
4. A sharp chef’s knife for cutting chicken and other ingredients
5. Measuring cups and spoons for the right amounts

With the right pasta, chicken, and tools, you can make many delicious chicken and pasta dishes. They will surely please your taste buds.

Quick 20-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Craving a tasty pasta dish? Try this Quick 20-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta! It has tender chicken, a yummy garlic butter sauce, and cooked pasta. It’s a meal that will make your taste buds happy.

This dish is quick and easy because of its great flavors. The chicken is seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper. Then, it’s pan-fried until it’s golden. The garlic butter sauce is made in the same pan, making the pasta taste rich and buttery.

1. Start by marinating the chicken with garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Pan-fry the chicken, skin-side down first, for 7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. In the same pan, add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for 30 seconds.
5. Toss the cooked pasta, some reserved pasta water, and Parmesan cheese into the garlic butter sauce, coating the pasta evenly.
6. Serve the garlic butter chicken over the pasta, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This recipe is great for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s ready fast. The tender chicken, creamy garlic butter sauce, and al dente pasta are a perfect mix. Enjoy this garlic butter sauce, quick pasta recipe, and easy dinner with your family tonight!

The Perfect Pasta Recipes with Chicken for Busy Weeknights

Weeknights can be busy, but you don’t have to skip dinner. Learn meal prep tips and make-ahead tricks. This way, you can make perfect pasta dishes with chicken, even when you’re in a rush.

Time-Saving Preparation Tips

Here are some quick tips to make cooking easier:

• Start by baking or grilling chicken early in the week. Then, shred or dice it for your pasta recipes.
• Chop veggies like onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for quick use.
• Make a big batch of pasta sauce on the weekend. Refrigerate or freeze it for easy reheating later.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Many chicken pasta dishes can be made ahead. This makes them great for quick dinners. Here’s how:

1. Put together the dish, including pasta, chicken, and sauce, in a baking dish. Cover and chill for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.
2. To serve, bake the dish until it’s hot and the cheese is melted.

Storage Guidelines

Storing leftovers right is important. Here’s how to keep your chicken pasta fresh:

• Cooked chicken stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 4 months.
• Cooked pasta can be refrigerated for 3-5 days or frozen for 2 months.
• Prepared pasta dishes, including sauce and cheese, can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 3 months.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Get ready to enjoy a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta dish. It’s packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety sauce. The sauce is made with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

To get the perfect sauce, use starchy pasta water and the right amount of Parmesan. This recipe has a 4.97 out of 5 rating from 222 votes. It serves up to 10 people, making it great for big families or meal prep.

This dish is quick to make, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. Each serving has 521 calories, with 29g of carbs, 21g of protein, and 36g of fat.

The recipe uses 12 ounces of shredded Parmesan cheese for a creamy texture. You’ll also get 1.5 pounds of chicken breast for extra protein. So, gather your ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy the flavors of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety sauce.

One-Skillet Chicken and Pasta Dishes

Discover the ease of one-skillet chicken and pasta dishes. They offer delicious flavors with little effort. These meals mix chicken, pasta, and veggies in a creamy sauce, all in one pan. They’re perfect for when you’re short on time or want a comforting meal.

Benefits of One-Pan Cooking

Cooking in one skillet is a big plus for busy nights. The flavors of chicken, pasta, and veggies blend well. Plus, it means less cleanup, making cooking and cleaning easier.

Essential Ingredients for One-Pan Meals

To make tasty one-skillet dishes, you need a few key items. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy taste. Choose quick-cooking pasta like penne or rotini. Onions, garlic, and herbs add flavor, while a creamy sauce holds it all together.

With these ingredients, you can make a tasty one-pan chicken and pasta dish. Serve it with a salad or roasted veggies for a full meal.

Healthy Chicken Pasta Recipe Variations

Want to make nutritious pasta dishes that taste great? Try these healthy chicken pasta recipes. They use whole wheat pasta, lean chicken, and lots of fresh veggies. Your family will love these tasty, healthy meals.

Try a Chicken Pasta Primavera for a burst of flavor. It has asparagus, leeks, artichokes, and peas. This dish is not only tasty but also full of protein, with 30 grams per serving.

For a creamy pasta without the extra calories, make Chicken Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Use fat-free milk and reduced-fat cream cheese. Add freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan for a creamy sauce without the extra fat.

Adding these healthy chicken pasta recipes to your meals is a great idea. They let you enjoy pasta’s comforting taste while staying healthy. Try different veggies, whole wheat pasta, and lighter sauces to make balanced, delicious meals.

Mediterranean-Style Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Make your weeknight dinner special with a Mediterranean-style chicken pasta. It’s packed with sun-dried tomatoes’ bold flavors. This recipe is easy to make and brings together the best of Mediterranean cuisine.

Key Mediterranean Ingredients

The dish’s heart is the Mediterranean’s classic flavors. Olive oil, feta cheese, and fresh herbs like oregano and parsley add authenticity. Sun-dried tomatoes are the star, bringing a tangy-sweet burst to each bite.

Cooking Techniques for Maximum Flavor

Use the sun-dried tomatoes’ oil to sauté garlic and shallot. This brings the Mediterranean essence to the dish. Cutting the chicken into small pieces ensures even cooking and blends flavors well.

This Mediterranean chicken pasta is ready in 35 minutes or less. It has about 579 calories per serving, making it a tasty and filling option for busy nights.

If you love Mediterranean flavors or want a new chicken pasta recipe, try this. Serve it with a crisp salad and crusty bread for a full meal.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Al Dente Pasta

Learning to cook pasta al dente is key to tasty pasta dishes. To get the perfect al dente texture, follow these tips:

1. Use a large pot: Pick a pot big enough for pasta to move freely. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
2. Add plenty of salted water: Boil a big pot of water and salt it well. Salt makes pasta taste better.
3. Follow package instructions: Watch the cooking time on the pasta package. Start checking a minute or two early to avoid overcooking.
4. Test for doneness: Taste pasta to check for al dente texture. It should be firm but still have a bit of bite.
5. Drain and reserve pasta water: Drain pasta but keep a cup of cooking water. This water helps bind pasta to sauce.

By using these pasta cooking techniques, you’ll get perfectly cooked al dente pasta every time.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Viral Recipe Worth Trying

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta has become a hit online. It’s a creamy chicken pasta that many love. It’s famous for its secret ingredients and tasty flavors.

Secret Ingredients That Make It Special

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta stands out because of its special ingredients. It has sun-dried tomatoes and Prosecco in the sauce. These add to its amazing taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Want to make this viral recipe? Here’s how to do it:

1. Cook the pasta as the package says, until it’s just right.
2. Brown the chicken and shrimp in a skillet until they’re done.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until they smell good.
4. Pour in the Prosecco and let it simmer for a bit.
5. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach. Let it get thick.
6. Mix the cooked pasta with the chicken and shrimp sauce.
7. Put it in a bowl and top with more Parmesan and basil if you like.

This pasta is loved for its creamy, spicy, and cheesy taste. It’s perfect for any special meal or when you just want something tasty. Give it a try!

Kid-Friendly Chicken Pasta Recipes

Mealtimes can be tough with picky eaters. But don’t worry! We have a great collection of kid-friendly chicken pasta recipes. They’re fun, tasty, and good for you. Your kids will love them and ask for more.

The Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta is a favorite. It has 1 pound of penne pasta and tender chicken. The breadcrumbs are toasted in butter for 3 minutes, adding a nice crunch. The chicken cooks for 8 to 10 minutes, making it juicy and flavorful.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 361kcal
• Servings: 8

The Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is another hit. It has fun spiral pasta and a creamy cheese sauce. You can add diced veggies like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.

For a quick dinner, try the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. These shells are filled with chicken and alfredo, making dinner cozy. Serve with a salad or garlic bread for a full meal.

These recipes are not just tasty but also healthy. They have fun shapes, mild flavors, and hidden veggies. Try different pasta, sauces, and toppings to find your family’s favorite.

How to Create Flavorful Chicken Pasta Sauces

Improving your chicken pasta dishes is about making tasty sauces. Learn about classic and custom sauces to enhance your meals.

Classic Sauce Recipes

Begin with creamy garlic butter sauce or robust marinara. These sauces are a great base for adding your favorite flavors.

For creamy goodness, mix butter, garlic, and heavy cream. This makes your pasta and chicken silky. Or, try a marinara with tomatoes, onions, and herbs for a zesty taste.

Sauce Customization Options

• Add white lemon juice for a bright flavor.
• Use fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for more scent.
• Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
• Include Parmesan cheese or feta for creaminess.
• Try sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and texture.

Pasta sauces are very flexible. Mix and match pasta sauces, flavor enhancers, and sauce variations to suit your taste and diet.

Quality ingredients and layered flavors are key to great chicken pasta sauces. A bit of creativity and simple changes can make your pasta dishes stand out.

Budget-Friendly Chicken Pasta Meals

Eating well on a budget can be tough. But, you can make tasty chicken pasta dishes without spending a lot. The trick is to use cheap ingredients and pantry staples for meals that are both tasty and healthy.

Choosing affordable chicken cuts is key. Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They’re cheaper than other cuts. Use cheap pasta like penne or fusilli to make more food with less.

Use pantry staples like canned tomatoes, dried herbs, and garlic. They add flavor without costing a lot. This way, you can make tasty, cheap meals for your family.

Meal prepping and batch cooking help save money. Cook big batches of chicken pasta and freeze them. This saves time and ensures you have healthy, affordable meals ready.

With a bit of creativity, you can make delicious chicken pasta meals that won’t break the bank. Use affordable ingredients, pantry staples, and smart planning to enjoy tasty, budget-friendly meals.

Make Your Pasta Dishes Restaurant-Quality

Elevate your chicken pasta dishes with top-notch techniques and flavor boosts. Learn to make restaurant-style pasta at home. Impress your family and friends with your cooking skills.

Start by mastering gourmet techniques. Sear your chicken to perfection, creating a beautiful caramelized crust. Toss the pasta with the sauce just before serving. This ensures the noodles are perfectly coated and al dente.

Finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for elegance.

For restaurant-style pasta, pay attention to detail. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water to enhance flavor. Reserve some starchy cooking liquid to help the sauce cling to the noodles.

Use quality ingredients like artisanal pasta, premium chicken, and creamy dairy products. This elevates the dish.

Don’t be afraid to try flavor enhancements like fresh herbs, roasted garlic, or a splash of lemon juice. These simple additions can turn a basic dish into a masterpiece. Plate your creation with a keen eye for presentation.

With practice and these tips, you’ll make restaurant-quality chicken pasta dishes at home. Enjoy the delicious results and the compliments from your diners.

Conclusion

Chicken pasta recipes are super versatile and easy to make. They’re great for any time, whether you need a quick meal or something fancy for dinner. You can change them up to fit what you like.

These dishes can please everyone, from creamy sauces to light Mediterranean tastes. Try different pasta, chicken, and spices to find your favorite. It’s fun to explore!

To make chicken pasta really good, mix flavors and textures right. Use top-notch ingredients and learn how to cook them well. Be creative and soon, you’ll make dishes that wow everyone.