The Ultimate Chicken Pasta Recipe of Your Dreams

If you’re searching for a Chicken Pasta recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and quick to make, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken Pasta dish is a luxurious combination of tender shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and crispy bacon, all tossed in a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this Chicken Pasta recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals who crave restaurant-quality meals at home. Plus, it’s SEO-optimized for all you foodies searching for the best Chicken Pasta recipes online. Let’s dive into the details!

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pasta Recipe

1. Creamy and Dreamy: The Alfredo sauce is rich, smooth, and coats every strand of pasta perfectly.
2. Packed with Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan add depth, while bacon brings a smoky crunch.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
4. Versatile: Use your favorite pasta or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: With a 4.98-star rating from 134 votes, this dish is a proven winner!

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Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy Chicken Pasta recipe (exact measurements are in the printable recipe card below):

For the Pasta:

• 300g / 10 oz fettuccine (or any pasta of your choice)
• 30g / 2 tbsp butter (divided)
• 2 chicken breasts (cut in half horizontally)
• 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper (for seasoning the chicken)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 cup (125ml) dry white wine (can substitute with more chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock/broth (low sodium recommended)
• 1 1/4 cups (315ml) cream (thickened/heavy cream for the best results)
• 3/4 cup (75g) parmesan (finely shredded)
• 70g / 2.5oz baby spinach
• 100g / 3oz sun-dried tomato strips (oil-free or oil-packed both work)

For Serving:

• 120g / 4oz bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• Extra parmesan (for garnish)
• Parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the fettuccine (or your chosen pasta) and cook for 1 1/2 minutes less than the packet instructions. This ensures the pasta stays al dente.
• Before draining, scoop out a mugful of pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help thicken the sauce later.
• Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Melt half the butter in a large skillet over high heat.
• Add the chicken and cook for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, shred it using two forks.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

• Turn the heat down to medium-high. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic.
• Cook the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant and golden.
• Pour in the white wine and let it simmer rapidly, stirring to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Once the wine has mostly evaporated, add the chicken broth, cream, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

4. Combine Everything

• Add the baby spinach, shredded chicken, and cooked pasta to the skillet.
• Toss everything together for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes until the sauce coats the pasta strands beautifully. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Plate the Chicken Pasta immediately.
• Top with crumbled bacon, extra parmesan, and a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh finish.

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Recipe Notes and Tips

1. Pasta Choices: While fettuccine is ideal for creamy sauces, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, spaghetti, or even bowtie pasta work well.
2. Cream Substitutes: If you’re watching calories, you can use light cream, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich. Adding a splash of pasta water helps thicken it.
3. Parmesan Tips: Use finely shredded parmesan for the best meltability. Avoid sandy or shaved parmesan, as they won’t blend smoothly into the sauce.
4. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-free or oil-packed both work, but oil-free varieties are lower in calories and plump up nicely in the sauce.
5. Leftovers: This Chicken Pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

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Nutrition Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 887cal (44%)
• Carbohydrates: 72g (24%)
• Protein: 44g (88%)
• Fat: 50g (77%)
• Saturated Fat: 27g (169%)
• Cholesterol: 259mg (86%)
• Sodium: 961mg (42%)
• Potassium: 1614mg (46%)
• Fiber: 5g (21%)
• Sugar: 11g (12%)
• Vitamin A: 3360IU (67%)
• Vitamin C: 16.7mg (20%)
• Calcium: 351mg (35%)
• Iron: 4.9mg (27%)

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The Secret to Perfectly Creamy Chicken Pasta

When it comes to making the ultimate Chicken Pasta, the secret lies in the sauce. A creamy Alfredo sauce is the heart of this dish, and getting it just right can make all the difference. The key to a luxurious, velvety sauce is using high-quality ingredients and following a few simple techniques.

First, always use heavy cream or thickened cream. While lighter alternatives can work, they won’t provide the same richness and texture. The cream serves as the base of the sauce, and its fat content helps create that indulgent mouthfeel we all love in a good Alfredo.

Next, parmesan cheese is non-negotiable. Opt for freshly grated or finely shredded parmesan, as it melts smoothly into the sauce. Avoid pre-grated or sandy parmesan, as these often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. The parmesan not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the sauce as it melts.

Another pro tip is to deglaze the pan with white wine. After cooking the chicken, the browned bits left in the skillet are packed with flavor. Adding a splash of white wine and scraping up those bits infuses the sauce with a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth.

Finally, don’t forget the pasta cooking water. The starchy water is a magical ingredient that helps bind the sauce to the pasta. If your sauce thickens too much, a splash of this water can loosen it up while maintaining the creamy consistency.

By following these tips, you’ll create a Chicken Pasta dish that’s restaurant-quality and sure to impress. The creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and flavorful add-ins like sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, makes this recipe a standout.

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 Customizing Your Chicken Pasta

One of the best things about this Chicken Pasta recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is already a crowd-pleaser, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to make this dish your own:

1. Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.

2. Change Up the Veggies: While spinach and sun-dried tomatoes are a winning combination, you can experiment with other vegetables. Broccoli, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers are great additions that add color and nutrition.

3. Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free options that work well with creamy sauces.

4. Add Some Heat: If you like a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This will give your Chicken Pasta a kick that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

5. Make It Lighter: For a healthier version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream. You can also use less cheese and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

6. Experiment with Herbs: While parsley is a classic garnish, other herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano can add a fresh, aromatic touch to the dish.

Customizing your Chicken Pasta not only makes it more exciting but also allows you to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is sure to be a hit.

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 Why This Chicken Pasta Recipe is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Life can get hectic, and finding time to cook a delicious, homemade meal can feel like a challenge. That’s where this Chicken Pasta recipe comes in. With a total time of just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something quick, satisfying, and flavorful.

The recipe’s simplicity is one of its biggest strengths. With minimal prep work and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can whip up this dish with ease. The steps are designed to be efficient, from cooking the pasta while preparing the chicken to using the same skillet for the sauce. This not only saves time but also reduces cleanup.

Another reason this recipe is ideal for busy nights is its one-pan approach. By cooking the chicken, sauce, and pasta in the same skillet, you streamline the process and avoid juggling multiple pots and pans. This makes the dish not only quick to prepare but also easy to clean up afterward.

Additionally, the ingredients are pantry-friendly and easy to find. Most of them, like pasta, chicken, and cream, are staples you likely already have on hand. The recipe also allows for flexibility, so you can use what’s available in your fridge or pantry without compromising on taste.

Finally, this Chicken Pasta is a complete meal in itself. With protein from the chicken, carbs from the pasta, and veggies like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a balanced dish that doesn’t require any sides. Serve it with a simple salad or garlic bread if you want, but it’s hearty enough to stand on its own.

Why This Chicken Pasta Recipe Stands Out

This Chicken Pasta recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:

• Balanced Flavors: The combination of creamy Alfredo, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and smoky bacon creates a harmonious flavor profile.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress.

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Final Thoughts

If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect Chicken Pasta recipe, this is it! Creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers. With its rich Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant mix of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for any night of the week.