Italian Chicken Pasta

Introduction

Italian Chicken Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce infused with Italian herbs and spices. The savory chicken, along with fresh vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, create a balanced and satisfying meal that feels both comforting and vibrant.

I remember making this for a casual Sunday dinner with friends. As the sauce simmered on the stove, the aroma of garlic, basil, and oregano filled the kitchen, setting the stage for a meal that would be enjoyed by all. The combination of the juicy chicken and the perfectly cooked pasta coated in the rich sauce was a hit, and everyone went back for seconds.

What’s great about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily swap in different vegetables, add a sprinkle of Parmesan, or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this Italian Chicken Pasta is sure to be a family favorite.

The best part? It’s simple to prepare, with minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, making it perfect for busy days when you still want something delicious and filling.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Romantic evenings
• Weeknight meals
• Comfort food lovers
• Pasta enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Italian Chicken Pasta

Here’s why Italian Chicken Pasta will become a new favorite in your kitchen:

• Packed with Flavor: This dish is bursting with the authentic tastes of Italy, thanks to the combination of seasoned chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and fresh herbs.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its delicious complexity, this recipe is easy to make and can be on the table in under 45 minutes.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your preferences, making this dish highly versatile.
• Balanced Meal: With protein-rich chicken, vegetables, and pasta, this dish offers a well-rounded meal in one plate.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and can be reheated, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550-600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For this flavorful Italian Chicken Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean, chicken breasts are a great source of protein and the main protein component of this dish.
• Tomato Base: Diced tomatoes and tomato paste give this dish a rich, savory tomato sauce that complements the chicken and pasta perfectly.
• Pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta for this dish, whether it’s penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni—each will hold the sauce beautifully.
• Olive Oil: This healthy fat helps cook the chicken and vegetables, adding a smooth richness to the dish.
• Cream (Optional): Heavy cream gives the sauce a creamy, luxurious texture, but you can skip it for a lighter version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Italian Chicken Pasta:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil on both sides.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.

Make the Sauce:

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any bits of chicken left in the pan for added flavor.
5. Simmer the Sauce: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cook the Pasta:

6. Boil the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later if needed.

Combine the Pasta and Chicken:

7. Slice the Chicken: While the sauce simmers, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
8. Add the Cream (Optional): For a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream at this stage and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
9. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta with the tomato mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
10. Add the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and toss to combine. Let everything heat through for a couple of minutes.

Serve the Dish:

11. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Chicken Pasta

Italian Chicken Pasta can be served in many ways to enhance the meal:

• As a Main Dish: This hearty pasta dish is perfect as a standalone main course for lunch or dinner.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve the pasta with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar makes a refreshing side to this flavorful pasta.
• Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a light red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, to complement the rich flavors of the tomato sauce and chicken.
• For Meal Prep: Store leftovers in airtight containers and enjoy as a meal for the next few days. This dish reheats wonderfully!

Additional Tips for Italian Chicken Pasta

Here are some tips to make your Italian Chicken Pasta even better:

• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano or basil, use them instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) but no more to keep it juicy and tender.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use Pasta Water: If the sauce is too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up and make it creamier.
• Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, then just cook the pasta and assemble the dish when you’re ready to eat.

Recipe Variations for Italian Chicken Pasta

Here are 10 variations you can try for Italian Chicken Pasta:

• Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Replace the tomato-based sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer, creamier version.
• Chicken Pesto Pasta: Swap out the tomato sauce for pesto for a fresh, herbaceous twist.
• Spicy Chicken Pasta: Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicier version of the dish.
• Chicken and Spinach Pasta: Add fresh spinach to the sauce for added greens and nutrition.
• Chicken Parmesan Pasta: Top the chicken with mozzarella cheese and bake until melted and bubbly for a Chicken Parmesan-inspired dish.
• Lemon Chicken Pasta: Add fresh lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a bright, zesty kick.
• Vegetable Chicken Pasta: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
• Creamy Chicken Tomato Pasta: Stir in more heavy cream for a richer, creamier tomato sauce.
• Chicken Marsala Pasta: Replace the tomato sauce with a Marsala wine-based sauce for an Italian classic twist.
• Grilled Chicken Pasta: Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the pasta.

Freezing and Storage for Italian Chicken Pasta

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta to maintain their texture. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Italian Chicken Pasta

Here are some special equipment items that will make preparing your Italian Chicken Pasta easier:

• Large Skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook the chicken and sauce together and helps combine all the ingredients smoothly.
• Pot for Pasta: A large pot for boiling the pasta is essential for ensuring the noodles cook properly.
• Tongs: Use tongs to easily toss the pasta in the sauce without breaking the noodles.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife helps you slice the chicken into thin, even strips, ensuring tender pieces in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions for Italian Chicken Pasta

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful option.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and refrigerate them. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I make this dish without cream?
   Absolutely! You can omit the cream for a lighter, tomato-based version of the dish.
4. What other pasta can I use?
   Any pasta shape works well with this sauce, such as fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

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Conclusion

Italian Chicken Pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table. Whether you prefer the classic tomato sauce, a rich and creamy Alfredo, or a vibrant, spicy pesto, this dish is perfect for creating a meal that suits everyone’s tastes. The tender chicken paired with pasta and your choice of sauce makes for a comforting, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.

You can customize it with additional ingredients like sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to elevate the flavor. For the complete Italian experience, serve your pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad, and don’t forget a glass of wine to tie it all together!

Italian Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that brings joy to both the cook and the diners, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or entertaining guests.

I’d love to see how your Italian Chicken Pasta turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!