Chicken Recipes with Pasta: Easy & Delicious Meals
Looking for easy chicken recipes with pasta that are both delicious and satisfying? You've come to the right place! This blog post is packed with simple yet flavorful recipes perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. We'll explore various techniques and flavor profiles, ensuring there's something to suit every palate. Get ready to elevate your pasta game with the addition of tender chicken!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
This recipe is a classic for a reason! It's creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and creamy sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to combine.
- Serve immediately.
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
This one-pan recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor! The bright, zesty lemon garlic sauce is incredibly addictive, making this a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce.
- Pour 1 cup of water into the skillet.
- Cover the skillet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pasta is cooked through and chicken is cooked thoroughly.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Chicken Pasta Dishes:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook until it's just cooked through.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste.
- Season generously: Don't be afraid to add salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste.
- Add vegetables: Enhance your dish with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms.
- Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a pop of color and flavor.
These easy chicken pasta recipes are perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and cheeses to create your own unique variations! Enjoy!
