17 Delicious Italian Chicken Pasta Recipes You Need to Try
Discover 17 mouthwatering Italian chicken pasta recipes, packed with rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and easy tips to create the perfect dish!
Ingredients
- 2 breasts Chicken breast Can substitute with chicken thighs for juicier meat. Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- 4 cups Fettuccine pasta Use other pasta shapes like penne or spaghetti if preferred. For a healthier option, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- 1 ½ cups Heavy cream For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk. For dairy-free options, use coconut cream or almond milk.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best texture and flavor. You can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- 2 tbsp Olive oil Can use butter as an alternative, or opt for a lighter version of olive oil.
- 2 tbsp Butter For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter. Can substitute with olive oil or ghee for a different flavor profile.
- 3-4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. Adjust the number of cloves based on your preference for garlic intensity.
- ½ tsp Red pepper flakes Optional for a bit of heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- To taste - Salt and black pepper Season to your liking. Add salt in stages while cooking the pasta, then adjust at the end when making the sauce.
- 2-3 tbsp - Fresh parsley or basil For garnish. Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a pop of color. You can also use dried herbs if fresh is unavailable.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:Season the chicken breasts generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper on both sides.Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice or cube it as desired.
- Cook the Pasta:In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. Set the pasta aside.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.Add the red pepper flakes if you prefer a hint of spice.
- Combine and Serve:Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the noodles evenly in the creamy sauce.Stir in the sliced or cubed chicken and let it warm through for a minute. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
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Chicken Variations:
- If you prefer a different cut of chicken, chicken thighs work well for a juicier and more flavorful result. Just make sure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, simply shred or dice it and add it to the sauce at the end to warm through.
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Pasta Substitutes:
- While fettuccine is ideal for creamy pasta dishes, feel free to use penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni if you prefer different pasta shapes. Whole wheat, gluten-free, or vegetable-based pasta can also be used for a healthier or dietary preference.
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Cream Alternatives:
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or coconut cream. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or cashew cream as alternatives.
- If you prefer a non-dairy cream, almond milk combined with a little cornstarch can be used to thicken the sauce.
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Spice Level:
- The red pepper flakes are optional, but they add a wonderful kick of spice. Adjust the quantity based on your preference. For a milder flavor, you can omit them completely.
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Vegetable Additions:
- To add more nutrients and flavor, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or zucchini to the pasta. You can sauté the vegetables in the same pan after cooking the chicken and before adding the garlic and cream.
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Leftovers:
- This dish keeps well as leftovers. Store any extra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk, broth, or additional cream to loosen the sauce. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.
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Parmesan Cheese:
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan can be convenient but often lacks the same creamy richness and smoothness when melted.
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Garnishes:
- For extra flavor and color, garnish the pasta with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.