Best Creamy Chicken Pasta Easy

Creamy chicken and pasta dishes have become a go-to comfort meal in my kitchen when everyone wants something cozy and satisfying but I do not want to fuss over complicated steps or obscure ingredients. This recipe is loaded with flavor thanks to a deeply seasoned chicken breast and a rich, velvety sauce that hugs every curly noodle.

I whipped this up after a long day once just using what I had on hand and now it is our default answer to What’s for dinner each week

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Choose a fresh plump piece for juiciness and slice it evenly so every piece cooks tender
• Smoked paprika: brings a subtle smoky warmth Lift a little to check the aroma before buying to make sure it smells vibrant
• Garlic powder and fresh garlic: Garlic powder seasons the marinade and fresh garlic builds a full flavor base in the sauce Both let the chicken and sauce taste savory and bold
• Dried and fresh parsley: This bright herb lifts the rich sauce and fresh parsley gives a lovely finish Choose leaves that are vivid green with no wilting
• Red bell pepper: A sweet pop of color and crunch Pick one that feels firm with tight shiny skin
• Heavy cream: The key for the luscious sauce Thicker cream means a silkier finish Shake the carton to avoid watery ones
• Fusilli pasta: The twists catch every bit of creamy sauce Choose a brand with rough texture for better sauce clinging
• Freshly grated parmesan: For true creaminess and flavor Grate it yourself for the freshest taste and best melting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Lay the chicken breast flat and scatter over the smoked paprika garlic powder salt pepper dried parsley and chili flakes Drizzle with olive oil and gently rub the spices all over so each piece is coated Leave to rest for ten minutes on the counter so the flavors sink in

Cook the Chicken:

Set a skillet over medium heat and add the butter Once melted and sizzling add the chicken Let it cook without touching for four to five minutes until golden underneath before flipping Cook on the other side for another four minutes until firm Lift the chicken out onto a dish to rest so juices stay inside

Make the Sauce:

Without wiping out the pan add two tablespoon butter When it foams up add the red bell pepper and garlic Slowly cook these for three to four minutes so the garlic turns soft and fragrant and the pepper is lightly caramelized

Thicken the Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and lower the heat to gentle Whisk in the flour mixed with water to create a slurry Let the sauce bubble quietly for two to three minutes so it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon

Add Flavor:

Stir in more smoked paprika garlic powder chili flakes plus a big handful of chopped parsley Mix until everything melds into the sauce and scent fills the kitchen

Cook the Pasta:

Meanwhile boil the fusilli in salty water until it is just al dente Drain well and set aside

Bring it Together:

Scrape the pasta into the sauce and toss well so every twist is glossy with sauce Sprinkle over all the parmesan and stir gently as it melts into the sauce

Top with Chicken:

Slice the rested chicken across the grain for tender bites Lay over the pasta and scatter with more parsley and parmesan if you like

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Storage Tips

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently with a splash of milk or extra cream to revive the sauce Avoid microwaving on high as that can separate the dairy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out fusilli for penne or rotini or use gluten free pasta for allergies You can easily substitute cooked shrimp for chicken or leave the protein out for a vegetarian feel Use half and half in place of heavy cream for a lighter sauce but simmer it down a bit longer to thicken

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with garlic bread or a crisp green salad A sprinkle of basil or a squeeze of lemon can add brightness For a special occasion spoon over extra shaved parmesan and a drizzle of good olive oil just before serving

Cultural Context

Creamy chicken and pasta dishes like this blend Italian inspiration with American comfort food It is a weeknight favorite everywhere because it is straightforward hearty and customizes to family tastes Every cook seems to have their own spin but the essentials remain deliciously familiar

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Fusilli is ideal due to its spirals, which hold onto the creamy sauce, offering a flavorful bite in every forkful.

→ How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes and avoid overcooking. Allow it to rest before slicing to keep it moist.

→ Can dairy alternatives be used in the sauce?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan if desired.

→ What other vegetables can be added?

Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms complement the flavors and can be sautéed with the bell pepper for added nutrition.

→ How do I adjust the spice level?

Control the heat by varying the amount of chili flakes in both the marinade and the sauce to suit your preferences.