If you're craving something creamy and comforting, this Creamy Herb Chicken Spaghetti is a game-changer for dinner time. It's packed with flavors from fresh herbs and a luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. Ready in under an hour, it's a quick yet satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Chicken breasts are the protein stars here, offering a lean yet juicy bite when cooked properly. Spaghetti serves as the base, soaking up the creamy sauce beautifully. Olive oil helps to brown the chicken while adding a subtle richness. The heavy cream and chicken broth create the sauce's creamy, savory foundation. Parmesan cheese adds depth and a salty note, melting smoothly into the sauce. Garlic infuses the dish with warmth and aroma. Fresh herbs like thyme, basil, and parsley bring out fresh, earthy flavors. Finally, a touch of butter rounds everything out, providing a silky finish.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. To make it a complete meal, consider serving with a side of garlic bread to mop up any extra sauce. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and herbs beautifully.
First, let's get the spaghetti going. Cook it according to the package instructions. Once it's al dente, drain it and set it aside for later. Just a quick tip: Save a bit of the pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.
Next, heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and add them to the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes per side, until they’re golden and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and let them rest. This resting time will keep them juicy when you slice them later.
In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for a minute or two until fragrant. You’ll want to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. As it bubbles away, gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until it melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
Now, sprinkle in the chopped thyme, basil, and parsley. Mix them in well to distribute their flavors throughout the sauce.
Slice the rested chicken and return it to the skillet, along with the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy herb sauce. Ensure everything is heated through, then serve immediately.