Nothing says comfort like a bowl of Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta. This dish combines tender, seasoned chicken cutlets with a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles. Infused with classic Italian flavors like garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, this recipe is a quick yet indulgent meal that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 5 boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 tsp minced garlic
- 2 small tomatoes, diced
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and set aside. This step ensures the pasta is ready to absorb all the creamy goodness of the sauce.
2. Prepare the Chicken
In a large Ziploc bag, combine ½ cup of flour, 1 tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 2 tsp Italian seasoning. Shake the bag well to mix the ingredients. Add the chicken cutlets to the bag, ensuring they are evenly coated with the flour mixture.
Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cutlets. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens and becomes translucent. Next, stir in the diced tomatoes and minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle 1 tbsp of flour into the skillet and stir to combine. This helps thicken the sauce. Then, add the red pepper flakes and 1 tsp of Italian seasoning. Gradually whisk in the heavy whipping cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to sauté the mixture until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
4. Combine and Serve
Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, stir in the cooked spaghetti noodles, ensuring they are well-coated. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together to combine and heat through.
Serve the Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the spaghetti with other pasta varieties like fettuccine, penne, or linguine. The sauce pairs well with most types of pasta.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine and reheat with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?
You can substitute heavy whipping cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What side dishes go well with this pasta?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are excellent sides to complement this creamy pasta dish.
Conclusion
This Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of savory and creamy, making it an ideal choice for any dinner occasion. The ease of preparation combined with rich Italian flavors will make it a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious taste and comforting texture.