Pasta dishes have a special place in the hearts of food lovers. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, pasta offers endless possibilities for creativity in the kitchen. One of the most beloved types of pasta is the creamy chicken pasta, with its velvety texture, rich flavors, and satisfying ingredients. Today, I’m going to share a delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe and a White Sauce Baked Pasta recipe that will bring a restaurant-quality meal right to your table.
Thanks to the expertise of Samina Food Story, we’re diving into a recipe that will surely become a family favorite. If you’re looking to enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish, this is the recipe for you. So let’s get started!
Ingredients You Will Need:
For the Creamy Chicken Pasta:
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Chicken Breast – 2 pieces (boneless and skinless)
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Pasta (any type, but penne or fettuccine works great) – 200g
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Olive Oil – 2 tbsp
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Garlic – 3 cloves (minced)
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Heavy Cream – 200ml
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Milk – 100ml
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Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup (grated)
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Mozzarella Cheese – 1/2 cup (shredded)
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Salt and Pepper – to taste
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Italian Seasoning – 1 tsp
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Fresh Basil – for garnish (optional)
For the White Sauce Baked Pasta:
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Pasta (penne or rigatoni) – 250g
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Butter – 2 tbsp
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All-purpose Flour – 2 tbsp
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Milk – 300ml
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Cream Cheese – 2 tbsp
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Cheddar Cheese – 1/2 cup (shredded)
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Mozzarella Cheese – 1/2 cup (shredded)
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Salt and Pepper – to taste
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Garlic Powder – 1/2 tsp
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Oregano – 1 tsp
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Fresh Parsley – for garnish (optional)
Preparing the Creamy Chicken Pasta
Let’s start by preparing the Creamy Chicken Pasta. This dish is rich, cheesy, and incredibly comforting—perfect for any occasion.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook it according to the instructions on the package. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside. You can reserve a little pasta water for later if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and once it thickens slightly, add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning to taste. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a little pasta water if needed. You want the sauce to coat the pasta perfectly, so don’t make it too thick.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the creamy sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the sauce. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat so everything is heated through. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the creamy chicken pasta hot, topped with a little extra Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish is rich and creamy with the perfect balance of flavors, making it the perfect comfort food for any day of the week.
White Sauce Baked Pasta: A Cheesy Delight
If you’re craving something even more indulgent, White Sauce Baked Pasta is the perfect option. This cheesy, baked pasta dish is loaded with creamy goodness and melts in your mouth with every bite. Here’s how to make it.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the pasta in salted water until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. If you want a bit more flavor, you can toss the pasta in a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the White Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Cook the roux for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes creamy.
Add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Baked Pasta
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and white sauce. Mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake the Pasta
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. If you like a crispier top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and serve hot. The creamy, cheesy pasta with a golden crust is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why These Pasta Dishes are Perfect for Any Occasion
Both of these pasta recipes offer something for everyone. The Creamy Chicken Pasta is rich and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. The White Sauce Baked Pasta is great for a special meal, a dinner party, or simply when you’re craving something cheesy and indulgent.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pasta:
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, basil, and high-quality cheeses will elevate the flavor of the dish.
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Adjust the Creaminess: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of cream and cheese to make the dish as rich or light as you like.
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Try Different Proteins: You can swap out chicken for other proteins like shrimp, sausage, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
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Bake it for Extra Texture: Baking the pasta gives it a crispy, cheesy top that makes the dish even more comforting.
Final Thoughts
Both of these pasta dishes are delicious, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with your loved ones. They offer a great way to enjoy comforting food with simple ingredients that pack a lot of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for a gathering, these creamy chicken pasta and white sauce baked pasta recipes are sure to hit the spot.
For more incredible recipes like this, be sure to check out Samina Food Story and Avellanea Massage for inspiration. Happy cooking and enjoy your pasta adventure!
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