Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta: A Decadent and Flavorful Delight

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken cutlets, al dente spaghetti, and a luscious, creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to impress. The combination of Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of red pepper flakes creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Each serving contains approximately 500 kcal, making it a hearty yet balanced meal.

Ingredients to Prepare

This recipe yields 4 servings. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 5 boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets
• 12 oz spaghetti noodles
• ½ cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp oil

For the Sauce:

• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 tsp minced garlic
• 2 small tomatoes, diced
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

How to Make

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Dredge the chicken breast cutlets in the flour mixture, coating them evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat.
• Add the coated chicken cutlets to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Pasta:

• Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
• Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
• Sprinkle the flour over the onion and tomato mixture, stirring to combine.
• Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combine and Serve:

• Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
• Slice the cooked chicken breast cutlets and place them on top of the pasta.
• Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Helpful Tips

• Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breast cutlets to an even thickness before dredging in the flour mixture.
• Pasta: Cook the spaghetti until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
• Sauce: To prevent lumps in the sauce, add the heavy whipping cream gradually while stirring continuously.

Cooking Tips

• Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference for a milder or spicier sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy sauce.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 25g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 3g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish until heated through.
• Freezing: While the pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Similar Recipes to Try

If you love Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta, you might enjoy these other delicious pasta dishes:

1. Chicken Alfredo Pasta: A classic pasta dish with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.

2. Pesto Chicken Pasta: A flavorful pasta dish with pesto sauce, grilled chicken, and cherry tomatoes.

3. Carbonara Pasta: A traditional Italian pasta made with eggs, Parmesan cheese, pancetta, and black pepper.

4. Spinach and Artichoke Pasta: A creamy pasta dish with spinach, artichokes, and a blend of cheeses.

5. Shrimp Scampi Pasta: A light and garlicky pasta dish with shrimp, lemon, and white wine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

• Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

2. What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream?

• You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken and gluten-free pasta.

4. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the skillet?

• Ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the chicken. Do not overcrowd the skillet, and cook in batches if necessary.

5. Can I add other herbs to the sauce?

• Yes, fresh basil, oregano, or thyme would make great additions to the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and happy cooking!

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