Creamy Chicken Pasta
A creamy chicken pasta dish that comes together quickly, perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes Choose plump, pale-pink, and evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini) These shapes trap sauce well; use high-quality durum wheat for best results.
- 2 cups mixed fresh veggies (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini) Use a colorful mix for a balanced meal.
- 1 cup cream or creamy dressing Heavy cream is preferred for a classic sauce, while a dressing adds flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken.
- to taste salt and pepper Season to preference.
- to taste Parmesan cheese for serving Optional garnish.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Searing Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through.
Sautéing Vegetables
- Add mixed fresh veggies to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.
Mixing Pasta and Sauce
- Stir the drained pasta into the skillet and pour in cream or creamy dressing. Mix over low heat until well-coated and heated through.
Serving
- Dish warm pasta onto plates and finish with freshly grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, cook pasta al dente. Use gentle heat when adding cream to prevent curdling. Let the skillet rest for 1–2 minutes before serving to help flavors meld.