If you’re craving a dish that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, seasoned chicken and al dente pasta tossed in a luscious, velvety sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Each bite bursts with classic Italian flavors, marrying creamy textures and a hint of spice to turn a simple weeknight meal into something truly special. This recipe is as approachable as it is delicious, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a comforting feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the magic of this Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe starts with a handful of simple, thoughtful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s building flavor, adding creamy textures, or bringing vibrant color to your plate.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite): The base of the dish that soaks up the sauce beautifully and offers satisfying bite.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and adds a fruity richness to the foundation of the dish.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, juicy and tender when cooked just right.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and the sauce to perfection.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: An aromatic blend that infuses the chicken with classic Mediterranean notes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant depth that elevates every component of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the luxurious creaminess that makes this pasta dish irresistible.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness of the cream and adds savory flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a sharp, nutty punch and a silky finish.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Offers chewy texture and bursts of sweet, tangy flavor.
- 1 cup spinach leaves, fresh: Adds freshness, color, and a mild earthy tone.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Just a little kick for those who love a touch of heat.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: Brightens the dish visually and complements the Italian flavors beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta of choice following the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This is crucial because the pasta will soak up the creamy sauce later, so it should still have a firm bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to await the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and that fragrant Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until each side is golden brown and fully cooked through. This step seals in juices and creates a fantastic flavor base. Once done, slice the chicken into bite-sized strips or chunks—ready to be added back to the pasta later.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, just about 30 seconds to a minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slowly into the cream for a smooth, luscious sauce that’s bursting with savory goodness.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Flavor Boosters
Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts and the sun-dried tomatoes soften slightly, releasing their tangy sweetness. This melds together layers of flavor and adds wonderful texture contrasts, rounding out the sauce beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the creamy sauce until every piece is coated with that luscious, flavorful mixture. Add the sliced chicken back in and stir carefully to combine. If you want a little zing, sprinkle in the optional red pepper flakes now, stirring them through for a subtle heat that lifts the whole dish.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of fresh basil leaves brings a bright, herbal lift and a pop of color that makes the dish truly inviting. Don’t underestimate how much fresh herbs can transform your finished dish—basil is the perfect partner for this creamy Italian chicken pasta recipe.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlicky roasted vegetables. For a full Italian-inspired spread, serve it with warm crusty bread to mop up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pasta in shallow bowls, topped with a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. For a special occasion, twist some fresh basil leaves into pretty rosettes and place them strategically on top—your guests will be impressed by the lovely presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This creamy Italian chicken pasta recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the sauce from drying out.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, because of the leafy spinach and creamy sauce, texture might change slightly. If you choose to freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for best flavor retention.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate and the chicken to dry out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or fettuccine work beautifully, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer—the sauce clings nicely to most types.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep it creamy and flavorful without dairy.
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version?
Yes! Using pre-cooked chicken is a great shortcut. Simply add it in step 5 to warm through, but be mindful not to overcook it to keep it tender.
How spicy is this recipe if I add red pepper flakes?
The 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds just a gentle warmth without overwhelming the dish—it’s perfect for a mild kick.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. Portion it out after cooking and store in individual containers for easy reheating throughout the week—just remember to reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a home-cooked creamy Italian chicken pasta recipe to make your day feel special. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion—whether a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together. Give this recipe a try and savor the joy in every hearty, creamy bite!
Print
Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and creamy Italian chicken pasta featuring tender chicken breasts, a luscious Parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, tossed with your choice of pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the skillet and slice into strips.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add veggies and flavor: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Cook the mixture until the spinach has wilted and the sauce is heated through. Add red pepper flakes if using for a touch of heat.
- Toss and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Arrange the sliced chicken on top or mix into the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
Notes
- Use any type of pasta you prefer such as penne, fettuccine, or linguine.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can intensify flavor; if using dry-packed, rehydrate in warm water first.
- For a lighter alternative, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to balance the creaminess.
- Fresh basil adds a fragrant, fresh finish—feel free to add more as garnish.
