When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, combining chicken and pasta is a winning formula you can't overlook. You might be familiar with classics like Creamy Chicken Alfredo or Chicken Parmesan Bake, but there are plenty of other standout options that can easily enhance your dinner game. Whether you're in the mood for something rich and creamy or zesty and light, these recipes cater to a range of tastes. Curious about which five dishes will make your weeknight meals both effortless and enjoyable? Let's investigate your next culinary favorites.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a classic dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal that's sure to please any palate.
This indulgent recipe isn't only simple to prepare but also offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into strips. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing until smooth.
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips:
For an even creamier Alfredo sauce, consider adding a splash of pasta water to the sauce before mixing it with the noodles; this helps to thicken the sauce and improves its flavor.
You can also customize your dish by incorporating vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
If you want a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can boost the dish nicely.
Finally, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in your sauce.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breast, al dente pasta, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce, creating a revitalizing meal perfect for any occasion.
This dish isn't only simple to prepare but also bursts with flavor, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With the bright notes of lemon and the aromatic essence of garlic, this pasta dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, then add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavors of this dish, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for about 30 minutes before cooking. This won't only amplify the taste but also keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Additionally, feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition and texture.
If you prefer a creamier pasta, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese right before serving.
Chicken Parmesan Bake
Chicken Parmesan Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to perfection. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, as it's easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of flavors and textures will make you want to come back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, place the cooked pasta at the bottom, then arrange the chicken breasts on top.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure to cover it completely.
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, creating a cheesy layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian dressing for a couple of hours before baking.
You can also customize this dish by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the pasta for extra nutrition and taste.
If you want a crispy topping, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking to achieve a golden brown finish.
Remember to let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help set the sauce and make it easier to serve. Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan Bake!
Pesto Chicken Penne
Pesto Chicken Penne is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich, aromatic pesto sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it brings together the fresh flavors of basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creating a comforting yet sophisticated meal.
With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time, making it a favorite among family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they're golden brown and cooked through.
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, add the cooked penne, pesto, and cherry tomatoes, tossing everything together until well combined.
Finally, stir in the sliced chicken and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a little pesto before cooking. This will infuse the meat with a delicious herby taste.
You can also customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese can be added to the pesto mixture for a richer texture.
Enjoy your Pesto Chicken Penne with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Spicy Chicken Arrabbiata
Spicy Chicken Arrabbiata is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty tomato sauce, infused with garlic and red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals and is simple enough to make any night of the week.
Served over your choice of pasta, it's a hearty and satisfying meal that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family or guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet, letting it simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes.
Drain the pasta and toss it with the sauce and chicken, ensuring everything is well coated.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the sauce for added texture and taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.
Finally, serve with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil to improve the complete flavor profile. Enjoy your spicy chicken arrabbiata!