Name: Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: – 2 tbsp unsalted butter; – 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; – ¼ tsp sea salt flakes; – 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthways; – 1 tsp sea salt flakes; – 1 tbsp Italian mixed herbs (Italian seasoning); – ¼ cup olive oil; – 400 g dried short pasta; – 1 tbsp unsalted butter; – 1 small brown onion; – 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic; – ¼ tsp chilli flakes (optional); – 1 tbsp plain flour; – 1 cup chicken stock; – 1½ cups thickened cream; – 120 g baby spinach; – 1½ cups freshly grated parmesan; – ½ tsp sea salt flakes; – ¼ tsp cracked black pepper

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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and creamy parmesan sauce makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The rich and creamy parmesan sauce paired with seasoned chicken creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish can be ready in no time.
Perfect for meal prep: This dish reheats well, making it a convenient option for meal prepping lunches or dinners.

Ingredient Notes:

Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the dish.
Panko breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy texture to the chicken.
Sea salt flakes: Enhances the overall flavor.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Sliced thinly for quick cooking.
Italian mixed herbs: Adds a savory and aromatic taste to the dish.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken.
Dried short pasta: Choose pasta with edges and crevices to hold the creamy sauce.
Brown onion and garlic: Aromatic ingredients that add depth to the sauce.
Chilli flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat to the dish.
Chicken stock, heavy cream, baby spinach, parmesan cheese: Key ingredients for the creamy sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Start by coating the chicken in a mixture of breadcrumbs, salt, and herbs.
Cook the chicken in a skillet until golden brown, then set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic, then add flour to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in chicken stock and cream to create a smooth sauce.
Stir in spinach, parmesan, salt, and pepper until the sauce is creamy.
Toss cooked pasta in the sauce and top with sliced chicken.
Serve with extra parmesan on top.

Helpful Tips:

For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Season the chicken generously for maximum flavor.
Use freshly grated parmesan for a more intense taste.
Don’t overcook the pasta to maintain its texture in the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I freeze this dish? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month.
Can I use different types of pasta? Yes, choose a shape that can hold the creamy sauce well.
How can I make this dish spicier? Increase the amount of chilli flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Conclusion:

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a versatile and delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out and let us know how it turns out for you! Enjoy!

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful herbs. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy night in.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and sea salt flakes, and cook until golden brown. Set aside.

2. Season chicken breasts with sea salt, Italian herbs, and pepper. In the same skillet, heat olive oil and cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp of butter, onion, garlic, Italian herbs, and chilli flakes. Cook until onion is softened.

4. Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken stock and cream, stirring until thickened.

5. Add spinach, parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until spinach wilts and sauce is creamy.

6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. Serve with sliced chicken on top and sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs and extra parmesan.

Notes

– To add a bit of heat, you can increase the amount of chilli flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.