When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight meals, few options can compete with a classic combination like chicken and pasta. And when you add in some creamy sauce and flavorful seasonings, you’ve got a match made in heaven! In this article, we’re sharing 20 easy and simple chicken pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From comforting classics like Chicken Alfredo to bold and spicy options like Spicy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal after a long day or a hearty option for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, grab some pasta, and get cooking! In our next section, we’ll dive into our first 10 recipes, featuring creamy sauces, savory flavors, and more.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting pasta dish, where juicy chicken, savory garlic, and creamy parmesan cheese come together in perfect harmony. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with butter until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Chicken Pasta
Brighten up your dinner plate with this vibrant and flavorful Lemon Butter Chicken Pasta recipe! This easy-to-make dish combines the richness of butter, the zest of lemon, and the tenderness of chicken with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp.)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add lemon juice, white wine (if using), and thyme. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has slightly thickened.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken in the skillet. Toss with the lemon butter sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This classic comfort food recipe is a game-changer – with only one pot to clean, you’ll be enjoying a rich and satisfying pasta dish in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
4. Add cooked fettuccine back into the pot, stirring to combine. Season with basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, adding reserved pasta water if needed, until sauce coats pasta evenly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
A flavorful and spicy take on classic pasta, this recipe combines juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil with a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the spicy tomato sauce and top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring chicken, mushrooms, garlic butter, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with creamy mushroom sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken-mushroom mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
7. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch sauce with a hint of garlic, all wrapped up in a creamy, velvety coating. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and garlic over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add crumbled bacon and ranch dressing to the skillet, stirring until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sauce mixture in a serving dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and aromas. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer until liquid is almost completely reduced, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and tomato sauce in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta with Spinach
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, and spinach with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, cook chicken breast over medium-high heat until cooked through. Slice into strips.
3. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in basil pesto and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the pan and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken strips, and pesto-spinach mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
A classic comfort food recipe that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich alfredo sauce with fettuccine pasta. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli in the skillet with the alfredo sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta
A twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of tacos with a comforting bowl of noodles.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 cup taco seasoning
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in taco seasoning.
3. Add diced tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese in a large bowl. Toss until cheese is melted and well combined.
5. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, and stuffed shells. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Remove foil and top with additional mozzarella cheese. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
White Wine Garlic Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of garlic and cream with the brightness of white wine, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. With its simplicity and versatility, this White Wine Garlic Chicken Pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with garlic until cooked through.
3. Add white wine and heavy cream. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Carbonara Pasta
This classic Italian dish is a staple of comfort food, featuring tender chicken, silky eggs, and a rich sauce all wrapped up in al dente pasta. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this mouthwatering meal at home.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. Add diced pancetta or bacon to the skillet and cook until crispy.
4. Crack in eggs and whisk together with Parmesan cheese.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Chicken Ziti
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, ziti pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add marinara sauce and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked ziti pasta, chicken mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Primavera Pasta
Get ready to savor the flavors of spring with this quick and delicious Chicken Primavera Pasta recipe! A classic Italian-inspired dish, it combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and al dente pasta in a light and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Pasta
A sweet and tangy twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of honey, mustard, and chicken for a satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy a delicious dinner in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and parsley)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard. Pour mixture over chicken and stir to coat.
4. Toss cooked pasta with mixed greens, salt, and pepper. Top with chicken and Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this classic dish, where tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and silky pasta come together in a harmonious blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and mushrooms in 2 tbsp butter until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender, 2-3 minutes more.
4. Pour in heavy cream and paprika; stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken-mushroom mixture. Toss to coat.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Get ready to level up your comfort food game with this spicy twist on classic macaroni and cheese. This creamy, cheesy dish combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with a crunchy topping for a delightful fusion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups cooked chicken (cooked in buffalo wing sauce)
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon buffalo wing sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pot, combine chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, and buffalo wing sauce. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the chicken mixture and stir well.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
6. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Fajita Pasta
Add a twist to traditional pasta dishes with this flavorful Chicken Fajita Pasta recipe. This quick and easy dish combines the bold flavors of fajitas with the comfort of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fajita seasoning
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining oil and sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add fajita seasoning to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and vegetable mixture in a large bowl. Stir in diced tomatoes and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Asparagus Pasta
In this recipe, succulent chicken, tender asparagus, and al dente pasta come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add asparagus to the pan with the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove chicken and asparagus from the pan; set aside.
5. In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and asparagus in a serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 easy and simple chicken pasta recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy tomato basil, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at one-pot wonders like chicken alfredo or buffalo chicken mac and cheese, or go for a lighter option like lemon butter chicken pasta. These mouth-watering dishes are sure to become new favorites in no time. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a quick weeknight meal, this collection has got you covered.
