Description

If you’re looking for a meal that combines the rich flavors of Italy with the creamy, indulgent textures we all crave, this Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is the answer. Imagine tender, juicy chicken cutlets seasoned to perfection, served over a bed of al dente spaghetti, all coated in a luscious, velvety sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fragrant Italian herbs. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for those cozy nights when you want to bring the flavors of a traditional Italian kitchen into your home. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or simply treating yourself, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 5 boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets
• 12 oz spaghetti noodles
• ½ cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp oil (olive oil recommended)
• For the Sauce:
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 tsp minced garlic
• 2 small tomatoes, diced
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

Preparation Method

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Ensure the noodles are cooked to al dente—soft but with a little bite left. Once ready, drain the water and set the noodles aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken

In a large Ziploc bag, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Shake the bag gently to mix everything well. Add the chicken breast cutlets to the bag, ensuring they are well-coated with the flour mixture.

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cutlets. Sauté the chicken until it is browned on both sides and fully cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to bubble slightly before adding the onions. Sauté the chopped onions until they soften and become translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and diced tomatoes, sautéing for another 30 seconds to release their flavors.

Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour and stir it into the vegetables to create a roux, which helps to thicken the sauce. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream while whisking constantly to ensure the sauce becomes smooth. Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir the sauce and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, making sure each piece is nestled into the pasta. Let everything heat together for another minute or two.

Plate the Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta, making sure each serving has a generous amount of chicken and sauce. For added flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top or garnish with fresh basil.

Tips and Conclusion

One of the great things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the spaghetti with other pasta types like fettuccine or penne, depending on your preference. For a healthier twist, add sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the sauce to bring in more texture and depth. Want a little more spice? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.

If you're a fan of cheese, add a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan to the sauce for an extra gooey, cheesy result. For those who love a crispy texture, consider topping the dish with breadcrumbs and broiling it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

This Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the perfectly seasoned chicken to the rich, flavorful sauce, each bite will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. The dish is simple enough to make on a weeknight but feels luxurious enough for a special occasion. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad and a glass of wine, and you’ve got yourself a restaurant-quality meal right in the comfort of your home. Whether you're feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner for two, this creamy, savory pasta will satisfy any craving.

Buon appetito!