Chef Mitchell preparing Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this creamy herb chicken pasta recipe during my culinary training in Italy. The perfect blend of herbs and cream captivated my taste buds. Over the years, I've perfected the dish, making it a staple in my home kitchen. Now, it’s a favorite among my family and friends, bringing everyone together at the dinner table."

With over a decade of experience in Italian cuisine, I specialize in crafting delicious dinner recipes. My passion for cooking was ignited in culinary school, and I have since dedicated myself to sharing authentic Italian flavors with others. From pasta to sauces, I believe in using fresh, quality ingredients.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta served on a plate

Why This Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta Recipe Works

This Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta is a perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. The succulent chicken pairs beautifully with the rich creaminess of the sauce, while the fresh herbs elevate the dish to a new level. It’s quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

The technique of sautéing the chicken to golden perfection and then deglazing the pan creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. By carefully combining the elements, you achieve a delicious, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, always use fresh herbs rather than dried. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant flavor that enhances the dish significantly. Additionally, make sure not to overcook your chicken to retain its juiciness and tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, and assemble the dish but leave off the sauce until ready to serve. When you're ready to eat, simply heat the sauce and combine everything. This helps the pasta maintain its texture and flavor.

If you prefer a meat alternative, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks quickly.

The pasta should be al dente, meaning it is cooked but still firm to the bite. The chicken should be no longer pink in the center and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The sauce should be heated through and creamy without being overly thick.

Yes, you can freeze Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. Store in airtight containers for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta well. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to let it cool before storing to maintain its quality.

Yes, this dish can be made in advance, making it great for meal prep. Just store leftovers in the fridge, reheat when ready to serve, and enjoy the comforting flavors without the hassle of cooking from scratch each time.

The best way to reheat Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta is on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent it from drying out while heating. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The pasta may end up dry if not enough sauce is used.

Solution: Add a bit more cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir well to incorporate and heat through before serving.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn't crispy, it may have been cooked over low heat.

Solution: Sear the chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown to achieve that crispy exterior. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken is overcooked, it may turn dry and tough.

Prevention: To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Cook chicken just until it reaches 165°F and remove it from the heat immediately.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Sometimes, chicken can be undercooked in the center.

Recovery: If discovered, return the chicken to the pan and cook for a few more minutes until fully cooked. Always cut into the thickest part to check for doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Chicken can burn if the heat is too high while cooking.

Prevention: Adjust the temperature to medium heat and watch closely to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To cut down on saltiness, add a splash of cream or more pasta to dilute the flavor.

Bland: If the dish is bland, increase the amount of herbs or add more salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Fresh ingredients for Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta

The key ingredients in this recipe include fresh chicken, creamy sauce, and various herbs. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing out the flavors. The chicken provides protein and substance, while the cream adds richness and a velvety texture. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme brighten up the dish and enhance its Italian essence.

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for the best flavor. Always opt for fresh herbs instead of dried, and choose good-quality chicken and cheese. Fresh produce and dairy elevate the overall taste of the dish, ensuring that every bite is delectable.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience and quicker cooking. Look for pieces that are plump and have a nice pink color, indicating freshness. Cutting them into uniform pieces ensures even cooking.
  • Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream will yield the richest, creamiest sauce. Don't substitute with low-fat options, as they won't achieve the same luxurious texture. If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half but expect a slightly different consistency.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Freshly grated cheese will melt smoothly into your sauce, enhancing its creaminess.
Cooking process for Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta is straightforward and enjoyable. Start by boiling your pasta until al dente. While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken and sauce simultaneously to save time. The key is to keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Once the pasta is ready, combining it with the sauce and chicken creates a cohesive dish that is creamy and full of flavor. Toss well to ensure every strand is coated. The final touches of fresh herbs and cheese will provide that extra burst of flavor.

Key Technique for Perfect Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta

The key to a perfect creamy sauce is to ensure it simmers gently after adding the cream, allowing the flavors to meld without boiling. This technique helps maintain the sauce's rich, creamy texture while avoiding curdling. Stirring frequently will also help incorporate the flavors and prevent sticking.

Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For a rich sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth
    Low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Freshly grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
    Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 12 oz fettuccine
    Or pasta of choice
  • 4 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1/2 onion
    Chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    Optional
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For brightness

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta

    In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Sauté Chicken

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

  3. Add Aromatics

    Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  4. Make the Sauce

    Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in thyme, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.

  6. Add Optional Peas

    If using, add peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

  7. Adjust Seasoning

    Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add lemon juice for a bright finish.

  8. Serve

    Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the components separately to maintain quality.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You may also include a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage for a different flavor profile. Experimenting with different herbs can also bring a delightful twist.