There’s nothing quite as comforting as a hearty pasta dish paired with tender chicken and vibrant flavors. This article delves into six scrumptious recipes that elevate the classic combination of chicken and pasta into culinary masterpieces. Whether you’re craving creamy sauces, bold seasonings, or a touch of citrus, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.
1. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
A marriage of golden, buttery chicken bites and rich, velvety Parmesan pasta, this dish is simplicity at its finest. The garlic undertones harmonize beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a meal that’s both decadent and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Chicken Bites: Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook in butter until golden brown, then add minced garlic for extra flavor.
- Prepare the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Make the Sauce: In the skillet used for the chicken, sauté garlic in butter, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Toss pasta in the sauce, then fold in the chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
2. Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Bright and zesty, this recipe combines the zing of fresh lemon with the richness of cream. Paired with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, it’s a refreshing take on a classic.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Season chicken and cook in olive oil until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
- Cook pasta and reserve pasta water for the sauce.
- Prepare the sauce by sautéing garlic, then deglazing the pan with chicken broth. Add cream, lemon juice, and zest, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in Parmesan and combine with cooked pasta. Add sliced chicken and garnish with parsley before serving.
3. Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
This wholesome dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy Parmesan sauce for a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, diced
Directions
- Cook pasta and broccoli together. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil. Sprinkle flour and whisk in milk to create a creamy base.
- Add Parmesan, stirring until smooth. Combine with pasta, broccoli, and chicken, and heat through before serving.
4. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
This cheesy pasta bake is a crowd-pleaser, blending creamy sauces with tender chicken and golden, bubbly cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 2 jars Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup garlic Parmesan sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta and combine with chicken, sauces, and half of the cheeses.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and top with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake until bubbly.
- Broil for a golden crust and garnish with parsley before serving.
5. Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef
This bold and cheesy dish brings Tex-Mex flavors to the table with spicy Rotel tomatoes and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and a breeze to make.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 12 oz pasta noodles
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 8 oz blanco Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Optional: “Slap Ya Mama” and Accent seasoning
Directions
- Cook pasta and set aside. Brown ground beef, then sauté onions and peppers.
- Add seasonings and Rotel tomatoes, simmering briefly.
- Melt in Velveeta cheeses, then stir in cream. Combine with pasta and top with shredded cheese. Let it melt before serving.
These six recipes offer a delightful variety of flavors and textures, showcasing the versatility of chicken and pasta. Whether you prefer a quick skillet dish, a zesty citrus twist, or a baked casserole, there’s something here to please every palate. Try one tonight and embark on a delicious culinary adventure!