There’s something magical about a perfectly cooked pasta dish—tender chicken, al dente noodles, and a sauce so good you’ll want to lick the plate. But let’s be honest: some recipes seem like they belong in a fancy restaurant, not your weeknight dinner rotation. What if you could whip up impressive, restaurant-worthy chicken pasta dishes without the stress, special skills, or hours in the kitchen?
That’s exactly what this list is all about. We’ve gathered 12 chicken pasta recipes that look like they took serious effort but are secretly simple to make. Think creamy garlic parmesan pasta with juicy pan-seared chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomato and spinach tortellini, or a spicy Cajun Alfredo that packs a punch. These dishes are packed with flavor, texture, and that “wow” factor—without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just craving something hearty and satisfying, these recipes prove that delicious doesn’t have to mean difficult. With easy-to-follow steps, minimal prep, and maximum taste, you’ll be serving up plates that look like you spent all day in the kitchen (when really, it only took 30 minutes).
So grab your skillet, boil that pasta water, and get ready to make some of the most deceptively easy yet impressive chicken pasta dishes you’ve ever tried. Your taste buds (and anyone lucky enough to eat at your table) will thank you!
One-Pan Chicken Alfredo
One-Pan Chicken Alfredo is a creamy delight that combines tender chicken with rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. The best part? It’s simple to whip up in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll love the savory flavors and the way the sauce clings to the pasta, creating a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once pasta is cooked, reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
This creamy garlic chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that feels special yet is easy to whip up any night of the week. The creamy texture, complemented by the savory garlic, creates a comforting flavor that even picky eaters will enjoy.
What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious dinner that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Toss Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy garlic sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Lemon Basil Chicken Fettuccine
Lemon Basil Chicken Fettuccine is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and zesty lemon flavors. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, offering a refreshing taste that makes it stand out without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The lemon adds a bright note that pairs beautifully with the basil, making each bite feel light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s simple enough for even beginner cooks to master, making it a go-to recipe for those looking to impress without the stress!
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and let simmer for a few minutes.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese and chopped basil, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan if desired.
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh and colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty pesto dressing, this salad is both satisfying and light. It’s a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The combination of flavors is delightful, with the creamy pesto bringing everything together. This recipe is not just easy to make; it also allows for customization based on your personal preferences. Whether you want to add more veggies or switch up the protein, feel free to get creative!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Add the Dressing: Drizzle with pesto sauce and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Herbed Chicken and Spinach Pasta
This Herbed Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a delightful mix of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed together in a light sauce. It offers a wonderful balance of flavors, where the herbs elevate the taste of the chicken and the spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition.
Best of all, this dish is simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few steps, you can create a meal that looks impressive but is easy enough for anyone to master.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spinach: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken and spinach. Mix well to combine all ingredients and heat through.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Spicy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata
Spicy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata is a lively dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors. The combination of tender chicken and zesty tomato sauce brings warmth and excitement to your dinner plate. This recipe is simple and quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet satisfying.
The heat from the red pepper flakes, paired with the fresh taste of basil, makes this pasta an instant favorite. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to create this delicious meal; with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your spicy chicken penne arrabbiata!
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta
This creamy mushroom chicken pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, luscious cream, and earthy mushrooms. The flavors blend beautifully to create a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.
With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this tasty dish in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s one of those recipes that looks fancy but is easy enough for anyone to master!
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, mixing everything together.
- Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious creamy mushroom chicken pasta!
Tomato Basil Chicken Spaghetti
Tomato Basil Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful dish that balances juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil over perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
The flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil come together to create a comforting meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. With just a few simple ingredients, you can impress your family or guests with a dish that looks like it took hours to prepare.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
- Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine. Stir in the fresh basil and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Plate the spaghetti and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a delightful pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach for a burst of flavor in every bite. With a creamy sauce that ties everything together, it’s a comforting meal that’s surprisingly simple to whip up. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish impresses while keeping your cooking time short.
The combination of savory chicken and tangy sun-dried tomatoes makes this orzo pasta a satisfying choice that will please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into the recipe and see just how easy it is to bring this delicious dish to life!
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing well.
- Combine: Add the cooked orzo and spinach to the pot, stirring until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and season to taste.
- Serve: Divide the orzo among plates and enjoy your Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo!
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort, the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is the way to go. This recipe combines tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and al dente pasta for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up. The blend of spicy and cheesy flavors makes it a hit for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
What’s great is how simple it is to make. Just combine everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta and cream cheese to the chicken mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake!
Thai Peanut Chicken Noodle Bowl
This Thai Peanut Chicken Noodle Bowl is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that come together in a simple, satisfying dish. With creamy peanut sauce, tender chicken, and fresh herbs, it offers a delicious escape to Thai cuisine right in your own kitchen.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this bowl is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and nutrients. You’ll love how the savory peanut sauce coats the noodles, making each bite a little piece of heaven!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced chicken until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with chicken and pour the peanut sauce over the top. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro, peanuts, and green onions before serving.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Linguine
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that marries the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with tender chicken and perfectly cooked linguine. The combination creates a creamy, savory sauce that clings to the pasta, making each bite a satisfying experience. This recipe is not only delicious but also super simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The key to this dish lies in its balance of flavors. The garlic adds a fragrant punch, while the Parmesan brings a nutty richness that elevates the entire meal. Throw in some fresh herbs and you’ve got a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, yet takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Linguine: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine: Add the cooked linguine and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Divide the garlic Parmesan chicken linguine onto plates and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Good food shouldn’t be stressful—it should be enjoyable, flavorful, and totally doable, even on busy nights. These 12 chicken pasta recipes are proof that you don’t need chef-level skills to make something amazing. Whether you’re in the mood for rich and creamy, light and fresh, or bold and spicy, there’s a dish here that’ll hit the spot. So ditch the takeout menu, try one (or three!) of these recipes, and get ready to fall in love with how easy—and delicious—homemade pasta can be.
