There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Traditional Chicken Pasta. It's a classic, creamy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, this recipe brings a touch of elegance to your table without much fuss.
Chicken breast provides a lean protein that pairs wonderfully with pasta. When cooked right, it’s juicy and flavorful. Fettuccine pasta is the ideal choice for soaking up the creamy sauce, thanks to its flat, wide shape. Olive oil is used for cooking the chicken and adds a subtle richness. Heavy cream forms the base of the sauce, making it thick and luxurious. Chicken broth adds depth and a savory note to the creaminess. Parmesan cheese not only thickens the sauce but infuses it with a nutty, salty flavor. Garlic is essential for its aromatic quality, enhancing the overall taste. Italian seasoning brings a hint of herbs, tying everything together beautifully. Finally, salt and pepper are crucial for balancing the flavors, and fresh parsley offers a pop of color and freshness.
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread. A glass of chilled white wine, like a Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce wonderfully. For a heartier meal, consider adding steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms to the pasta.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Throw in the fettuccine pasta and let it cook until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but save a cup of the pasta water — you might need it later to adjust the sauce consistency.
While the pasta is cooking, heat up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken breast in the skillet and let it cook until it’s golden and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it thinly — this helps it mix better with the pasta and sauce later.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Stir it around for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring them together gently. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; this is where the magic starts.
Next, add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning into the creamy mix. Stir continuously until the cheese melts, and the sauce begins to thicken. If it seems too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water can help loosen it up to your liking.
Now, return the sliced chicken and the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything well to ensure the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it up hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh finish.