Italian Chicken Pasta

Here’s a flavorful and comforting Italian Chicken Pasta recipe that combines tender chicken, a creamy (or tomato-based) sauce, and classic Italian herbs — perfect for a weeknight dinner or something a little special!

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🍝 Italian Chicken Pasta

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins

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🐔 Ingredients:

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

For the pasta & sauce:

• 8 oz penne, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes)

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for creamy version)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil or parsley (optional)

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🔪 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the chicken:

   • Season both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through.

   • Remove and let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

3. Make the sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté onion (if using) for 2–3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

   • Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened and slightly blistered.

   • Stir in heavy cream (or half-and-half), Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine:

   • Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.

   • Simmer 1–2 more minutes to blend flavors.

5. Garnish & serve:

   • Top with fresh chopped basil or parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with garlic bread or salad.

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🔄 Variations:

• Tomato-based version: Replace cream with 1 ½ cups of marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes.

• Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.

• Cheesy: Stir in mozzarella for extra cheesiness.

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Want a one-pot version or baked casserole style? I can give you that too.