18 Easy Chicken Pasta Recipes: Creamy Crowd Pleasers

If you’ve ever found yourself staring into the fridge after a long day, craving something warm and comforting, you’re not alone. Weeknight dinners can often feel like a chore, especially when you’re juggling work, family, and everything in between. That’s why I put together this collection of easy chicken pasta recipes that are not only creamy and delicious but also quick to prepare. We all need a go-to list for those busy nights that still gives us that cozy, home-cooked feeling.

This post is for anyone who loves the idea of a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who enjoys cooking but doesn’t have the time, these recipes are tailored to suit your needs. You can whip up creamy chicken pasta dishes that bring comfort and joy to your table without the fuss.

In this guide, you’ll find 18 easy chicken pasta recipes that will become your new favorites. Each recipe is designed to be simple yet flavorful, perfect for when you want to indulge without the hassle. From creamy garlic chicken pasta to creamy Cajun chicken pasta, these crowd-pleasers will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into these delicious meals that will make your weeknight dinners exciting and satisfying.

Key Takeaways

– Enjoy a variety of 18 easy chicken pasta recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.

– Each recipe features creamy sauces and simple ingredients that create comforting flavors.

– Quick preparation times make these meals ideal for anyone short on time but still wanting a delicious dinner.

– You’ll find a mix of flavors and styles, from classic chicken Alfredo to zesty taco chicken pasta, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

– These recipes are designed to be crowd-pleasers, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

1. Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Craving something creamy and comforting? Dive into a bowl of creamy garlic chicken pasta that wraps your taste buds in warmth and flavor. This dish pairs tender chicken with al dente pasta, all drenched in a rich garlic cream sauce that’s simply irresistible. With a sprinkle of Parmesan adding depth and roasted garlic infusing sweetness, it’s perfect for family get-togethers or cozy nights at home. Enjoy the magic of flavors that bind everyone together at the dinner table.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking until golden, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic, sautéing for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream, stirring well and letting it simmer for a couple of minutes.
5. Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, substitute cream with coconut milk and cheese with nutritional yeast!

2. One-Pan Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta

Looking for a hassle-free dinner? This one-pan creamy spinach chicken pasta is your answer, combining simplicity with incredible flavor. Featuring tender chicken and fresh spinach enveloped in a velvety sauce, everything cooks in one pan, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time. The vibrant spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds a lovely pop of color. Finish with a hint of lemon zest, and you’ve got a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the diced chicken; season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, adding spinach and allowing it to wilt for a couple of minutes.
4. Toss cooked penne pasta into the skillet, mixing to combine.
5. Finish with lemon zest for a bright flavor.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding!

Fun fact: One-pan meals save time—prep and cleanup can drop by up to 40%. With this one-pan creamy spinach chicken pasta, tender chicken and vibrant greens shine in a velvety sauce, making easy chicken pasta recipes feel effortlessly doable.

3. Pesto Chicken Pasta with Creamy Ricotta

Dreaming of summer flavors? Indulge in a refreshing pesto chicken pasta with creamy ricotta that will transport you to sunny days. This dish combines the earthy taste of pesto with juicy chicken, tossed in a light sauce that pleases the palate. The ricotta adds a luscious creaminess that complements the vibrant green pesto beautifully. Quick to prepare, this meal is perfect for any occasion, whether served warm or cold.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add diced chicken, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and ricotta cheese, mixing until well combined and heated through.
5. Toss with spaghetti and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

FAQs:
– Can I make this vegetarian? Definitely! Swap chicken for grilled zucchini or mushrooms.

4. Lemon Chicken Pasta with Asparagus

Elevate your dinner with a zesty lemon chicken pasta that celebrates fresh flavors! This dish features tender chicken and crisp asparagus, all tossed in a bright lemon sauce. The freshness of the lemon lifts the entire meal, pairing beautifully with savory chicken and pasta. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for those who crave a burst of flavor. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs to complete the dish, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, adding the chicken slices with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through.
3. Add asparagus and chicken broth to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until asparagus is tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then toss with the cooked linguine.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen asparagus? Yes! Just thaw them before adding.

5. Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta

Craving a comforting dish? Get ready for creamy tomato chicken pasta that warms the soul! This meal combines the rich flavors of tomatoes with a creamy sauce, creating a delightful symphony of taste with every bite. Tender chicken adds protein while pasta provides the perfect canvas for this delicious sauce. Hearty and satisfying, it’s perfect for cozy dinners at home. A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the dish, making it visually appealing and delicious.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, adding diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through.
3. Add minced garlic and crushed tomatoes, stirring well. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and mix until heated through.
5. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use fresh tomatoes? Absolutely! Just dice them and cook until soft.

6. Creamy Red Pepper Chicken Pasta

Brighten your dinner table with creamy red pepper chicken pasta that pops with color! This stunning dish features roasted red peppers blended into a rich creamy sauce, enveloping tender chicken and pasta. It’s not only visually appealing but bursting with flavor. The sweetness of the red peppers perfectly balances the savory chicken, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe brings excitement without the fuss.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
– 1 cup roasted red peppers, blended
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through.
3. Stir in blended roasted red peppers and cook for about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream, mixing well and allowing it to simmer for a few minutes.
5. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I make this dairy-free? Yes! Substitute cream with cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese!

7. Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the earthy goodness of creamy mushroom chicken pasta! This recipe showcases savory mushrooms that add rich flavor to a comforting creamy sauce. Tender chicken pairs perfectly with pasta, creating a satisfying dish that comforts both the stomach and senses. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s sure to impress at your dinner table.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add sliced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until soft.
4. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the sauce and garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use dried mushrooms? Yes! Just rehydrate them before cooking.

8. Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Spice up your dinner with creamy Cajun chicken pasta that packs a flavorful punch! This dish features bold Cajun seasoning, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together beautifully. The heat from the spices combines perfectly with the richness of the cream, making each bite an explosion of flavor. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you crave something exciting. Garnish with green onions or parsley to balance the spice and add freshness.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz tagliatelle
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook tagliatelle according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add sliced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
3. Stir in heavy cream and allow it to simmer for a few minutes.
4. Toss the cooked tagliatelle in the sauce until well coated.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use shrimp instead of chicken? Yes, shrimp works beautifully in this dish!

9. Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Satisfy your comfort food cravings with a classic creamy chicken Alfredo pasta! This beloved meal features tender chicken and fettuccine coated in a velvety Alfredo sauce. The combination of cream, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich flavor that perfectly hugs every noodle. It’s a timeless favorite, ideal for both special occasions and casual dinners. Your family won’t be able to resist its creamy goodness. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up during busy nights.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 4 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, season chicken with salt and pepper, and cook until golden.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing it to simmer until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, mixing until well coated.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I substitute the cream? Yes, use half-and-half for a lighter version.

10. Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

Bring a taste of home to your dinner table with a cheesy chicken pasta bake! This comforting dish layers tender chicken, hearty pasta, and gooey cheese, creating a delightful harmony. Baked until bubbly and golden, it offers that delicious cheesy crust everyone loves. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep, this recipe can easily become a family favorite. Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
5. Transfer to a baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

FAQs:
– Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! Try cheddar or a blend for different flavors.

Fun fact: A single cheesy chicken pasta bake can feed 4–6, making weeknight dinners effortless. Prep the sauce in 10 minutes, bake 20, and you’ve got leftovers for busy days. Easy chicken pasta recipes like this turn chaos into comforting, family-friendly meals.

11. Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Elevate weeknight dinners with creamy chicken and broccoli pasta that’s both delicious and nutritious! This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cream sauce, resulting in a meal as colorful as it is satisfying. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, making each bite delightful. Quick to prepare, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens! A sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds extra flavor, ensuring it’s a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook until golden.
3. Add broccoli and chicken broth, covering and cooking for about 5-7 minutes until broccoli is tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and simmer until thickened.
5. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and serve with Parmesan cheese on top.

FAQs:
– Can this be made ahead? Yes! Reheat it on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

12. Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta

Spice up your dinner with creamy chicken fajita pasta that’s bursting with flavor! This fun twist on classic fajitas combines all your favorite flavors into a pasta dish that’s sure to impress. Seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a creamy sauce come together to create a fiesta on your plate. It’s a hearty meal ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Serve with tortilla chips for an extra crunch!

Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken and fajita seasoning, cooking until chicken is golden and cooked through.
3. Add sliced bell pepper and onion, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes.
5. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the sauce and serve.

FAQs:
– Can I make this vegetarian? Yes! Use black beans and veggies instead of chicken.

13. Creamy Chicken and Peas Pasta

Go for something simple yet delightful with creamy chicken and peas pasta! This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, sweet peas, and a creamy sauce, creating a meal perfect for any night of the week. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while satisfying those comfort food cravings. The sweet peas add a pop of color and sweetness, making this dish appealing for the whole family. Quick to prepare, it’s delicious and ensures you can enjoy a hearty meal without hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook until golden.
3. Add frozen peas and cook until heated through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and allow it to simmer for a few minutes.
5. Toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce and garnish with parsley before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use fresh peas? Yes! Just add them in the last minute of cooking.

14. Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Pasta

Savor the flavors of your favorite dip with spinach and artichoke chicken pasta! This creamy dish brings together tender chicken, spinach, and artichokes in a luscious sauce that echoes beloved appetizer flavors. It’s a comforting pasta dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a fresh twist on familiar tastes. The creamy texture and slight tang from the artichokes create a delightful balance that everyone will enjoy. Impress guests or treat your family to this delightful meal!

Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook until golden.
3. Stir in chopped artichokes and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
4. Add heavy cream, simmering until the sauce thickens.
5. Toss the cooked penne in the creamy mixture and serve.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen spinach? Yes! Just thaw and drain before adding.

15. Creamy Herb Chicken Pasta

Infuse fresh flavors into your dinner with creamy herb chicken pasta! This dish features tender chicken and pasta coated in a light and creamy herb sauce. The addition of fresh herbs elevates the meal, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for those who love a refreshing yet comforting dish. Quick to whip up, this recipe is fantastic for busy weeknights and will leave everyone feeling satisfied. Plus, it’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors!

Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Fresh herbs (thyme, basil, and parsley), chopped
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, adding sliced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through.
3. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer.
4. Mix in chopped herbs and toss the cooked linguine in the sauce before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use dried herbs? Yes, but use less as their flavor is more concentrated.

16. Sweet Potato Chicken Pasta

Add a nutritious twist to your pasta nights with sweet potato chicken pasta! This creative dish features roasted sweet potatoes mixed with tender chicken and pasta, all tossed in a creamy sauce. The natural sweetness of the potatoes beautifully contrasts with savory elements, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to wow your taste buds. Excellent for those seeking something different yet comforting, this recipe is also great for meal prep!

Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced and roasted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
2. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add cubed chicken. Cook until golden and cooked through.
4. Stir in roasted sweet potatoes and heavy cream, allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes.
5. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and serve.

FAQs:
– Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet ones? Yes, but they will alter the flavor slightly.

17. Creamy Taco Chicken Pasta

Spice up your pasta night with a creamy taco chicken pasta that’s packed with flavor! This fun and flavorful dish combines your favorite taco fillings with pasta for a delicious twist. The creamy sauce, balanced with spices, creates a hearty meal that delights the senses. Perfect for families and gatherings, it’s a hit for taco and pasta lovers alike. With simple ingredients and quick prep time, this dish brings excitement to your dinner table.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 cup salsa
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp taco seasoning
– Olive oil
– Shredded cheese for serving

Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add chicken seasoned with taco seasoning. Cook until golden.
3. Stir in salsa and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes.
4. Toss the cooked penne in the sauce and serve topped with shredded cheese.

FAQs:
– Can I use ground beef instead of chicken? Yes, it works well in this recipe!

Weeknight dinners don’t have to sacrifice flavor. With easy chicken pasta recipes like creamy taco chicken pasta, you can whip up a crowd-pleaser in minutes, then enjoy leftovers for lunch.

18. Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Wrap up your culinary journey with creamy chicken and corn pasta that’s both comforting and delicious! This dish features tender chicken and sweet corn enveloped in a rich cream sauce, bringing everything together beautifully. Simple yet satisfying, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, providing comfort in every bite. The sweetness from the corn balances the richness of the cream, creating a delightful flavor combination. Easy to prepare, it’s ideal for those nights when you want something comforting yet quick.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 cup sweet corn, frozen or fresh
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook until golden.
3. Stir in corn and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes.
4. Toss the cooked fusilli in the sauce and garnish with fresh chives before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use canned corn? Yes, just drain and rinse before adding.

Conclusion

These easy chicken pasta recipes are ideal for busy weeknights, combining quick preparation with tasty, creamy comfort.

Whether you crave a classic Alfredo or want to spice things up with Cajun flavors, this list has something to satisfy every palate.

Try these creamy crowd-pleasers and watch how quickly they become your go-to meals, making dinner not just easy, but deliciously enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions