Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Pasta combines tender, seared chicken with a rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Infused with Parmesan, Romano cheese, and a hint of lemon, this dish is an elegant yet comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknights or a special dinner, it’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup flour
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 ¼ cups half and half (half cream, half milk)
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• ½ chicken bouillon cube
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/3 cup Romano cheese, grated (see notes)
• ½ lb. pasta (any kind)
• 1 cup pasta water (optional)
• 1 lemon (optional)

For the Seasonings:

• ½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley (all dried)
• 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika

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Instructions

Prep Work:

1. Combine the half and half, chicken broth, and seasonings in a large measuring cup with a spout. Set aside.
2. Measure out all ingredients before starting. Place a measuring cup in the colander to remember to reserve pasta water later.

Season and Sear the Chicken:

1. Slice the chicken in half lengthwise to create 2-4 thinner pieces. Place plastic wrap over the chicken and pound to about 1-inch thick. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle with flour and rub it into the surface.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and let rest for 10 minutes. Slice into strips.

Make the Sauce:

1. Begin boiling water for the pasta.
2. Add the white wine to the skillet and reduce heat to medium. Use a silicone spatula to deglaze the skillet, scraping up the flavorful browned bits. Simmer until reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the butter and garlic, cooking for 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly add the half and half mixture in small splashes, stirring continuously to maintain a smooth, thick consistency.
5. Stir in the chicken bouillon cube. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover partially.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Salt the boiling water generously and add the pasta. Cook to al dente. Set a timer to avoid overcooking.
2. Drain the pasta and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

Finish the Dish:

1. Gradually sprinkle the cheeses into the sauce, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently toss to coat. Incorporate the sliced chicken along with any juices from the plate.
3. Adjust the sauce consistency with reserved pasta water, if needed, adding small splashes at a time.
4. Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta for a bright finish. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: A luxurious, cheesy sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
• Customizable: Works with any pasta type and protein, making it incredibly versatile.
• Restaurant-Quality: Impress your guests with a dish that tastes like it came from an Italian bistro.

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Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
• Be patient when adding the liquid to the roux; adding it too quickly can cause lumps.
• Save extra pasta water—it’s a lifesaver for reheating leftovers and keeping the sauce creamy.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or plant-based alternatives.
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies.
• Wine Substitute: Replace the wine with chicken broth and a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice.
• Cheese Options: Substitute Romano with Asiago or Pecorino for a slightly different flavor profile.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What if I don’t have half and half?
Combine equal parts heavy cream and milk as a substitute.

Is the wine necessary?
The wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can replace it with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair this creamy chicken pasta with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus for extra nutrition.

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Suggestions

For a special touch, top with crispy bacon bits, toasted breadcrumbs, or fresh basil leaves before serving. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, date nights, or holiday gatherings!