What to Cook with Chicken and Pasta?

Looking for a quick, tasty, and versatile meal? Chicken and pasta make the perfect combination! Whether you love creamy, spicy, baked, or fresh dishes, there’s a recipe for every craving.Beyond convenience, chicken pasta is budget-friendly and customizable. You can experiment with different pasta shapes, chicken cuts, and sauces for unique flavors. Want to see how the pros do it? Browse the best chicken pasta recipes from Food Network for inspiration!

Why Cook with Chicken and Pasta?

• Chicken is a lean, protein-rich option that pairs well with various sauces.
• Pasta is a hearty and filling base for endless recipe variations.
• Both ingredients cook quickly, making them perfect for fast meals.
• You can create healthy or indulgent versions based on your preferences.

For a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes, explore The Best Pasta Fazool Recipe with Chicken. It’s a classic Italian comfort meal that combines chicken, beans, and pasta for a hearty dish.

Best Chicken and Pasta Recipes

1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A rich, cheesy dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast (or thighs)
• Penne or fettuccine pasta
• Garlic, butter, and heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese and black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Sauté garlic in butter, then add chicken and cook until golden.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir in parmesan cheese.
4. Add cooked pasta and mix well.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve.

2. Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A bold and flavorful dish with just the right amount of spice!

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast, cut into strips
• Penne or rotini pasta
• Cajun seasoning, garlic, and onion
• Bell peppers and cherry tomatoes
• Heavy cream or half-and-half

Instructions:

1. Coat chicken with Cajun seasoning and cook in a hot pan.
2. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened.
3. Pour in cream and simmer for a few minutes.
4. Toss in cooked pasta and mix until fully coated.

For those curious about alternative meats in pasta, check out What is the Best Meat for Pasta Fagioli?. This guide helps you choose the right protein for your pasta creations!

3. One-Pot Pesto Chicken Pasta

A light and fresh pasta dish packed with flavor!

Ingredients:

• Chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken
• Linguine or spaghetti
• Basil pesto sauce
• Cherry tomatoes and spinach
• Olive oil and lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta, saving some pasta water.
2. Sauté chicken with olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Stir in pesto sauce and reserved pasta water for a smooth sauce.
4. Toss in cherry tomatoes and spinach, then mix with pasta.

4. Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta

A creamy and cheesy baked dish that’s great for meal prep!

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast or thighs
• Penne pasta
• Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Mozzarella and parmesan cheese
• Garlic and Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta and mix with Alfredo sauce.
2. Layer pasta in a baking dish, then add cooked chicken.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
4. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

For another creamy pasta alternative, try How to Make a Creamy Steak Pasta. It’s a rich, indulgent option for pasta lovers!

5. Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Pasta

A fresh and tangy dish perfect for a light dinner!

Ingredients:

• Grilled chicken breast
• Angel hair pasta
• Lemon zest, olive oil, and garlic
• Cherry tomatoes, capers, and parsley
• Crumbled feta cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté chicken with olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and capers, then mix with pasta.
4. Top with feta cheese and parsley before serving.

Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Pasta

Marinate chicken or brine it for extra juiciness.
Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushy texture.
Use fresh herbs to enhance flavors.
Choose the right pasta shape for different sauces.

For more easy chicken pasta ideas, check out AllRecipes’ 30-Minute Chicken Pasta Dinners. These simple yet delicious meals are great for busy weeknights.

Healthy Chicken Pasta Variations

• Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free alternatives.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Load up on vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
• Choose lean proteins like chicken breast over thighs.

FAQs About Chicken and Pasta

1. What sauce goes best with chicken and pasta?

Cream-based sauces like Alfredo add richness, while tomato-based sauces provide a tangy contrast.

2. Can I prepare chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth for moisture.

3. What vegetables pair well with chicken pasta?

Spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes complement chicken pasta beautifully.

Final Thoughts

With these chicken and pasta recipes, you’ll never run out of meal ideas! Whether you want creamy comfort food, bold spices, or fresh Mediterranean flavors, there’s a dish for you.

Try these recipes and let us know your favorite!