Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy Italian chicken pasta dishes! Who says you can’t have it all – rich flavors, tender chicken, and satisfying pasta? We’ve got 18 mouthwatering recipes to prove that you can, and we’re excited to share them with you. From classic Alfredo to bold and spicy options, each dish is a masterclass in comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, our collection of creamy Italian chicken pasta recipes has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Italy’s rich culinary heritage, with dishes that blend familiar flavors with creative twists and unexpected ingredients. So grab your fork and let’s dive in!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is a staple for any pasta lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine with garlic and oil.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with sauce.
7. Serve hot over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the savory taste of chicken and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Butter Chicken Alfredo
Brighten up your pasta dish with the tangy flavor of lemon and the richness of butter. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and a hint of citrus for a delightful twist on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Pour sauce over chicken.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is bubbly.
7. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Pasta
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, artichoke hearts, and a creamy sauce, all on top of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic powder and cook for 1 minute. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in artichoke hearts, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of Tuscany with this easy and satisfying one-pot pasta dish, featuring tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a hint of Italian seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., pappardelle, spaghetti)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add chicken to the pot; cook until browned on all sides (5-6 minutes). Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add mushrooms to the pot; cook until tender (3-4 minutes).
5. Add chicken broth, white wine (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to the pot; stir to coat with sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the Tuscan chicken mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and colorful recipe that combines the richness of pesto, the juiciness of cherry tomatoes, and the tender goodness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Combine cooked chicken with tomato mixture.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken-tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Marsala Pasta
Treat your taste buds to a rich and creamy Italian-inspired dish with this Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fettuccine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup Marsala wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add Marsala wine and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Add heavy cream, garlic, and mushrooms to the skillet. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the Marsala sauce.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and Marsala sauce mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Fettuccine
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of sautéed chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce with tender fettuccine noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– 12 ounces fettuccine noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic to skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms to skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5-6 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Pour into skillet with mushrooms; stir to combine.
6. Add cooked chicken back to skillet; stir to coat with sauce.
7. Combine cooked fettuccine noodles with the chicken-mushroom mixture; toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Chicken Alfredo Penne
A classic comfort food gets a new twist with this easy-to-make baked chicken alfredo penne dish. Tender chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a delightful casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Italy with a spicy kick, featuring tender chicken, flavorful arrabbiata sauce, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Stir in arrabbiata sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce and stir until combined.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and chicken in the skillet, tossing to coat with the spicy arrabbiata sauce.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Piccata Pasta with Capers
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, crisp capers, and flavorful pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. If using wine and broth, add to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Add butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Stir in capers and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Slice chicken into thin strips and add to the pasta. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Pasta
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe
This flavorful pasta dish combines roasted red peppers with chicken, garlic, and herbs to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toss red peppers with olive oil, garlic, and oregano on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine roasted chicken and red peppers in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with chicken and red peppers.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Carbonara with Pancetta
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy and indulgent pasta dish, featuring tender chicken, crispy pancetta, and a velvety egg sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add chicken to the same skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Add cooked chicken and pancetta to the pasta mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Spaghetti
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil with classic spaghetti for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add diced onion to the skillet. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato sauce.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water with the chicken mixture. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Primavera
A delicious and quick weeknight dinner option that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, garlic, and herbs with a light and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and broccoli. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and heavy cream. Pour into the skillet with broccoli and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Wine Garlic Chicken Linguine
This classic Italian dish combines the flavors of garlic, white wine, and tender chicken with linguine pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in white wine and stir to combine with garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly reduced.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat with sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Combine cooked linguine with chicken mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Four Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
A creamy, cheesy, and satisfying pasta dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or bow tie)
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, feta, and diced tomatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary Lemon Chicken Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic Rosemary Lemon Chicken Orzo dish, featuring tender chicken, bright lemon zest, and the earthy warmth of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tsp)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add garlic, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in lemon juice and cooked orzo.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 18 creamy and delicious chicken pasta recipes. From classic Chicken Marsala Pasta to innovative Pesto Chicken Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, each dish combines tender chicken with al dente pasta, savory sauces, and a hint of Italian flair. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and zesty or hearty and comforting, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, grab your fork, and take a taste journey through Italy with these mouthwatering chicken pasta recipes!