If you are craving a dish that combines the rich, velvety texture of a luscious sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, you’re in for a real treat with this Creamy Chicken Pasta. This recipe delivers an irresistible harmony of flavors, from the savory seared chicken infused with Italian seasoning to the silky homemade sauce studded with Parmesan and Romano cheeses. It’s a soul-satisfying, comforting meal that feels both elegant and down-to-earth, perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends during a cozy night in.

Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Pasta lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a critical role in balancing flavor, texture, and appearance—giving you a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to behold.

1 large boneless skinless chicken breast: The star protein that, when properly seasoned and seared, stays juicy and flavorful.
Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of ingredients and seasoning the chicken just right.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds herby depth to the chicken and sauce.
¼ cup flour: Used to coat the chicken and form the base of a creamy roux for the sauce.
1-2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly searing chicken and creating flavor layers.
½ cup dry white wine: Adds acidity and brightness, helping to deglaze the pan for a deeper sauce flavor.
3 tbsp butter: Brings richness and helps cook garlic and flour for the sauce.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant punch that gently infuses the creaminess.
3 tbsp flour: Creates the roux that thickens the sauce beautifully.
1 ¼ cups half and half: The creamy base that makes the sauce indulgently smooth and luscious.
¾ cups chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the creaminess.
½ chicken bouillon cube: Boosts savory notes for a rounded flavor profile.
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Offers salty, nutty richness that melts perfectly into the sauce.
1/3 cup Romano cheese (grated): Adds sharpness and enhances the cheesy dimension.
½ lb. pasta (any kind): The tender, satisfying base of the dish that soaks up all the lovely sauce.
1 cup pasta water (optional): Helps adjust the sauce consistency and makes reheating leftovers effortless.
1 lemon (optional): A squeeze adds a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
½ teaspoon EACH onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley (all dried seasonings): Carefully chosen seasonings to deepen and harmonize the flavor.
1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that elevates the entire dish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prep Work

Before you dive into cooking, gather all your ingredients and measure them out. Combine the half and half, chicken broth, and your mix of dried seasonings in a large measuring cup and set it aside. This combo will become your luscious sauce base. Also, place a measuring cup in the colander you’ll use for draining pasta to remember to save some pasta water later—this trick makes the sauce silkier and is a lifesaver when reheating leftovers.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice the chicken breast lengthwise to create thinner pieces that cook evenly and quickly. Pound each piece to about 1-inch thickness under plastic wrap for even cooking and juiciness. Pat dry, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dust the chicken with flour, rubbing it in so it gets a nice texture and won’t stick to your skillet. Sear the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat, cooking each side until golden brown. Once done, let it rest for about 10 minutes to lock in those juices, then slice it into strips.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

After removing the chicken, pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up those delicious browned bits (fond) stuck to the pan. Let it reduce by half to concentrate that flavor. Stir in butter and garlic, cooking briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for a couple of minutes to cook out the raw taste. Slowly whisk in your half and half/chicken broth mixture a little at a time, keeping the sauce thick and creamy. Add the chicken bouillon cube for extra savoriness, bring to a gentle bubble, then reduce heat and cover partially to let flavors meld.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

Salt your boiling water generously—that’s the secret to flavorful pasta. Add your choice of pasta and cook it until just shy of al dente; you want it a bit firm since it will finish cooking in the sauce. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for adjusting your sauce’s texture.

Step 5: Finish the Creamy Chicken Pasta

Gradually stir the grated Parmesan and Romano cheese into the warm sauce, allowing it to melt seamlessly. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently with a silicone spatula to coat every strand or shell. Fold in your sliced chicken and any resting juices from the plate to infuse even more flavor. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the perfect creamy consistency. For an optional but highly recommended finishing touch, squeeze fresh lemon over the top to brighten and balance all that richness, garnish with parsley, and enjoy immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese instantly warms this dish up visually and taste-wise. A bright lemon wedge on the side invites diners to add a splash of citrus brightness that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. Don’t underestimate how garnishes elevate every forkful!

Side Dishes

To complement this rich Creamy Chicken Pasta, consider serving a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add color and a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also pairs wonderfully, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, plate the Creamy Chicken Pasta in shallow bowls, layering the chicken strips artfully on top. Drizzle a little extra sauce around for a restaurant-style finish. You can even play with pasta shapes—try shells, farfalle, or penne—to add visual interest. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika dust on top can give a hint of color and a touch of intrigue to your presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Chicken Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen, making your reheated meal as enjoyable—if not more!—than the first round.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces can sometimes separate slightly after freezing, but the pasta water trick (explained next) will help restore the sauce’s silky texture upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding small splashes of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and bring back the creamy goodness. Stir frequently until heated through. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the sauce from breaking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chicken for Creamy Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breast is ideal for its fast cooking and tenderness, thighs can be used for a juicier, slightly richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?

The white wine adds a subtle acidity and complexity to the sauce, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute extra chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

What pasta type works best in Creamy Chicken Pasta?

Most pasta shapes pair wonderfully with this recipe. Favorites include penne, fettuccine, or shells, since their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce well, making every bite satisfying.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lower in fat?

To lighten it up, consider substituting half and half with unsweetened almond milk thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep that cheesy flavor. The sauce will be lighter but still tasty!

How can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Incorporate veggies like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking the sauce. They add texture, color, and fresh flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Pasta is a heartfelt favorite that promises comforting, crowd-pleasing flavors and indulgent textures every single time you make it. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity paired with the richness of a well-crafted sauce and tender chicken. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a go—it’s one of those meals that fills your kitchen with warmth and your table with happy smiles!