Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a luscious and comforting dish? Look no further than this delectable Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta recipe. Picture juicy chicken coated in fragrant spices, then lovingly nestled in a velvety pasta sauce that boasts a dreamy blend of cheddar and parmesan. This dish strikes the perfect balance between familiar and fancy, making it ideal for both cozy nights in and entertaining dinner guests.

The magic of this Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta lies in the harmonious marriage of flavors and textures. The bright notes of paprika add a delightful zest to the creamy sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you choose to use chicken thighs or breasts, or opt for cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend, this recipe is versatile and customizable to suit your preferences.

As you savor each forkful of this indulgent pasta, you’ll find yourself transported to a place of pure comfort and satisfaction. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple instructions, this dish is a true winner for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a memorable dining experience with this Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and velvety pasta sauce that pairs perfectly with the juicy golden chicken for a luxurious dining experience
• Versatile dish that allows for ingredient substitutions to suit different taste preferences and dietary needs
• Easy to store leftovers and reheat, making it a convenient option for meal prep and next-day lunches
• Simple yet elegant dish that feels like a restaurant treat but can be easily prepared at home

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce Recipe

• This Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta recipe elevates a weeknight meal into a special dining experience with its juicy golden chicken, vibrant herbs, and velvety pasta sauce.
• The fragrant spice crust on the chicken, followed by butter basting, ensures extra tenderness and flavor that will have you savoring every bite.
• The creamy penne pasta, coated in a dreamy blend of cheddar and parmesan, offers the perfect comfort food moment, making it ideal for a cozy dinner at home.
• Leftovers can be stored for up to three days, with the flavors deepening and becoming even more delicious the next day, making it a great option for lunches.
• It is a versatile recipe that allows for ingredient swaps such as using chicken breast or different types of cheese to suit your preferences without compromising on taste.
• The addition of fresh herbs like parsley or basil, paired with a side of roasted broccoli or steamed green beans, adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• With a nostalgic nod to classic Italian American comfort food, this dish brings the luxury of a restaurant meal to your home kitchen, making it a perfect choice for a cozy night in.

Ingredients for Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Garlic Herb Chicken

• 15 ml olive oil
• 5 g onion powder
• 30 g unsalted butter
• Optional: crushed red pepper, to taste
• 5 g garlic powder
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• 5 g Italian seasoning
• 450 g boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast pieces
• 5 g paprika

Cheesy Creamy Penne

• 280 g cooked penne pasta
• 25 g grated parmesan cheese
• Optional: pinch of smoked paprika
• Salt, to taste
• 240 ml heavy cream or half and half
• 100 g shredded mature cheddar or cheese blend
• 15 g unsalted butter
• 2.5 g Italian seasoning
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced

Pro Tips for Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Pro tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors that will elevate the dish.

Pro tip: When making the creamy sauce, slowly incorporate the cheeses into the heavy cream mixture over low heat. Stir gently to avoid boiling the sauce, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture without any separation. This method will result in a decadent and luxurious sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.

Pro tip: To add a pop of freshness, garnish the finished dish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve alongside roasted broccoli or steamed green beans to balance out the richness of the creamy chicken pasta. Additionally, a side salad with vinaigrette and crusty bread will complement the meal, making it a well-rounded and satisfying feast.

How to Make Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Prepare and Season Chicken

Dry chicken and generously season all sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear Chicken to Golden Perfection

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear chicken in a single layer for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through.

Step 3: Glaze with Herb Butter

Melt butter in the pan and spoon hot herb butter over the chicken to glaze and enhance flavor. Transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare Creamy Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently.

Step 5: Finish the Cheese Sauce

Combine shredded cheddar and parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Combine the cooked penne with the creamy cheese sauce in the skillet, tossing until pasta is evenly coated.

Step 7: Plating and Serving

Plate the cheesy penne alongside the herb-glazed chicken. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the chicken before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have made Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If the sauce thickens upon reheating, simply add a splash of milk or cream and gently reheat on the stovetop to restore its creamy texture. The flavors of this dish deepen and develop after a night in the fridge, making it a delicious option for next-day lunches.

To enhance the presentation and flavor of your finished dish, consider sprinkling some fresh parsley or basil over the plated meal. For a balanced meal, serve the Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, a crisp salad with vinaigrette, and some crusty bread. This classic Italian American comfort dish can be brightened up and personalized with these simple accompaniments and adjustments to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to switch up the protein, both chicken thighs and breasts are suitable choices for this dish. If using chicken breasts, be mindful of adjusting the cooking time to prevent them from drying out. Chicken breasts also tend to cook faster, so monitor them closely to ensure they remain juicy.

When it comes to the cheese blend, feel free to get creative. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend are all great options for adding creaminess to the sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, mozzarella can be a good substitute for cheddar. Additionally, parmesan cheese can be replaced with another hard cheese if needed, but be sure to choose one that complements the overall dish.

To lighten up the sauce, half and half or whole milk can be used instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that this substitution may result in a slightly thinner sauce, so adjust accordingly based on your preference. When incorporating the cheese into the sauce, do so gently over low heat to prevent it from becoming grainy and to maintain a smooth, velvety texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try serving this Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for a charming presentation. Top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Pair the dish with a side of roasted broccoli or steamed green beans to add a healthy balance to the meal.

To take this dish to the next level, consider serving it family-style on a large platter garnished with extra grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Accompany the pasta with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette and warm crusty bread for a complete and satisfying feast. Consider setting the table with elegant dinnerware and dimming the lights for a cozy and intimate dining experience.

FAQs for Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in this recipe?

Yes, both chicken thighs and breasts work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster and stay juicier when not overcooked.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese in the pasta sauce?

You can use cheddar, a cheese blend, or substitute with mozzarella for extra creaminess and stretch. Adding parmesan cheese will also give the sauce more depth of flavor.

Can I use half & half instead of heavy cream in the sauce?

Yes, half & half is an easy swap for heavy cream. However, the sauce will be slightly lighter in consistency. Whole milk can also be used for a thinner sauce.

How can I ensure the sauce stays creamy without the cheese separating?

Stir the cheese in gently over low heat and avoid boiling the sauce to ensure a silky texture without separation. This method will help maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta is truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. The velvety sauce, flavorful chicken, and cheesy pasta create a harmonious combination that is sure to please your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you are cooking for a special someone, hosting dinner guests, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is a winner every time.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta recipe. Swap ingredients, adjust seasonings, or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own. The beauty of home cooking is that you can tailor recipes to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So go ahead, have fun in the kitchen, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish. Cheers to good food, good company, and good times!