Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s bursting with bold flavors, creamy textures, and loads of feel-good vibes? Let me introduce you to The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe)! This dish brings together tender, spiced chicken, swirls of al dente pasta, and a silky, garlicky cream sauce crowned with fresh herbs and a snowfall of Parmesan. Every twirl and bite feels like a warm hug—perfect for cozy nights or impressing your favorite people with minimal fuss.

The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

I absolutely love how straightforward these ingredients are, yet each one plays a starring role. When you combine fresh parsley’s brightness, the pepper’s crunch, and smoky paprika’s depth with creamy cheese and chicken, you get layers of flavor in every forkful. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breast: Butterflied for faster cooking and juicier meat—don’t skip marinating for big flavor!
Salt & pepper: Classic seasonings that help the flavors pop—taste and adjust as you go.
Smoked paprika: Gives that irresistibly deep, smoky warmth—perfect with rich cream.
Garlic powder: Adds a mellow, savory punch, balancing fresh garlic’s sharpness.
Dried parsley: Brings a mellow herbaceous note and color to the chicken.
Chili flakes: For a gentle kick—add more if you like extra heat!
Olive oil: Helps the marinade penetrate and keeps the chicken juicy.
Butter (for cooking): Creates those golden pan-seared edges on the chicken.
Butter (for the sauce): Builds depth and makes the cream sauce extra luscious.
Red bell pepper: Brings color and a sweet crunch—don’t leave this out!
Fresh garlic: Eight cloves sound like a lot, but they melt perfectly into the sauce.
Heavy cream: The backbone of the sauce—use full-fat for the creamiest texture.
Flour slurry (flour + water): A clever trick to thicken the sauce until it hugs the pasta.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): Chopped fresh, it gives awesome color and a pop of freshness.
Fusilli Pasta: Holds onto every drop of the creamy sauce with its twisty shape!
More smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes: Layered seasoning means powerful flavor in every bite.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a savory, nutty finish—always grate it yourself if you can!

How to Make The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning your butterflied chicken breast with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and a sprinkle of chili flakes. Drizzle with olive oil, rubbing everything in so the flavors seep deep into the meat. Let it rest for 10 minutes—it’s a game changer for juicy, flavorful chicken!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium. Once sizzling, lay in your marinated chicken and let it sear about 4-5 minutes each side, until the crust is golden and the middle is cooked through. Set the chicken aside to rest—this seals in those tasty juices before you slice.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In that same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and let it brown ever so slightly for deeper flavor. Toss in the diced red bell pepper and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until fragrant and the pepper softens—your kitchen should be smelling incredible already!

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in your flour slurry. Simmer everything gently for 2-3 minutes. You’ll see the sauce thicken into a luxurious, silky blanket—be patient and let it work its magic.

Step 5: Add Flavor

Time to build boldness! Stir in more smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes, and a handful of that fresh chopped parsley. The colors will pop and the aroma only gets better as it all comes together.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook your fusilli pasta in a bubbling pot of salted water until just al dente—firm to the bite. This bit of texture stands up perfectly to the rich sauce. Drain it but save a splash of pasta water if you want to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 7: Bring it Together

Add the drained fusilli directly into your pan of bubbling sauce and toss to coat each spiral. Now, scatter the freshly grated Parmesan over everything and stir until it melts into that creamy lake, making each pasta piece gorgeously glossy.

Step 8: Top with Chicken

Slice your rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Nestle them on top of the creamy, saucy pasta, and finish with extra parsley and a generous shaving of Parmesan. Take a moment—this is The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe) at its most irresistible!

How to Serve The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe)

Garnishes

For that over-the-top fresh flavor and a restaurant-style look, I always shower on more chopped parsley and some extra Parmesan. Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little fire, or a drizzle of good olive oil for shine and aroma. Don’t forget cracked black pepper to finish!

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple salad—think peppery arugula or crisp romaine tossed in lemon juice and olive oil. A warm, crusty baguette or soft garlic bread turns every last bit of sauce into a joy, so have some on hand for dipping. For veggie lovers, roasted asparagus or green beans make quick, healthy complements.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe) in wide bowls or plates to showcase all those gorgeous toppings. Want to impress at dinner parties? Twirl single servings into “nests” and top each with fanned chicken slices. For casual gatherings, serve directly from a colorful skillet at the table—family-style encourages seconds and big smiles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The creamy texture holds up well, and the flavors often deepen overnight. Just be sure to cool the pasta completely before covering to prevent excess condensation.

Freezing

The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe) can be frozen, but be aware that cream sauces may separate a bit. If freezing, portion into airtight containers after cooling. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and give the sauce a good stir before reheating—sometimes a splash of cream will bring it right back to silky perfection.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual portions in a skillet or saucepan over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to restore creaminess. Stir gently until hot. The microwave works too—cover loosely and reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Just avoid boiling, which can curdle the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work just as well as breast. They’re slightly juicier and very forgiving—just trim them well and adjust cook time as needed for thicker pieces.

Is there a lighter option for the cream?

If you’re looking to lighten things up, swap half the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. The sauce won’t be quite as thick, but you’ll still get that dreamy texture if you add an extra pinch of flour for thickening.

What other pasta shapes are good substitutes?

Penne, rigatoni, or rotini are all fantastic because they grab onto the sauce just like fusilli. Even spaghetti works in a pinch, but twisty or tubular shapes are best for this rich, clingy sauce.

Can I add vegetables or other proteins?

Feel free! This recipe is super flexible. Spinach, mushrooms, or peas are tasty mix-ins—just stir them into the sauce before adding the pasta. For a seafood twist, try shrimp cooked in place of chicken.

How can I make it extra spicy?

Double up on chili flakes, or dice a fresh chili into the sauce alongside the red pepper. You can also offer hot sauce at the table for a customizable kick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dinner that’s both impressive and easy, The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe) is your new go-to. Every bite is rich, satisfying, and layered with flavor—whether you’re treating yourself or feeding a crowd. Grab those simple ingredients and give this a try tonight. I think you’ll fall in love with every forkful!

The Best Creamy Chicken and Pasta (Easy Recipe) Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken and pasta recipe that combines tender marinated chicken with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: Season the butterflied chicken breast with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and chili flakes. Drizzle with olive oil and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside to rest before slicing.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter, letting it brown for a minute. Add diced red pepper and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the flour slurry to help thicken the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Flavor: Mix in smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes, and chopped parsley. Stir well and let the sauce bubble gently.
Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook Fusilli Pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Bring it Together: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce.
Top with Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken and place it over the pasta. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian