Pin This ultra-creamy chicken pasta has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something comforting yet quick. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luxurious cream cheese sauce creates a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
I first created this recipe when my sister dropped by unexpectedly for dinner. With limited ingredients in my pantry, this creamy pasta was born out of necessity but has since become our most requested family meal for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: provides the perfect shape to hold the creamy sauce in every bite
- Cooked chicken: adds lean protein and makes this a complete meal use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience
- Chicken broth: forms the flavorful base of the sauce while cooking the pasta
- Cream cheese: creates that signature velvety texture without making a traditional roux
- Parmesan cheese: adds the perfect salty umami depth to balance the creaminess
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients:
- Gather all ingredients before starting. Dice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces about half an inch in size for even distribution throughout the pasta. Having everything ready makes this one-pot meal come together effortlessly.
- Combine Base Ingredients:
- Add the uncooked pasta, diced chicken, and chicken broth to a large pot. Make sure the broth just barely covers the pasta. This one-pot method allows the pasta to absorb the savory broth flavors as it cooks.
- Simmer Until Tender:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb most of the liquid and become perfectly al dente.
- Create The Creamy Sauce:
- Once the pasta is tender and most liquid has been absorbed, reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese in chunks and stir continuously until completely melted and incorporated. The residual heat will melt the cheese perfectly without breaking the sauce.
- Finish With Parmesan:
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes glossy and smooth. The combination of both cheeses creates the ultimate creamy texture. Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
Pin The cream cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its magic when I ran out of heavy cream one evening and made this substitution out of desperation. The result was actually creamier and more flavorful than my traditional recipe, and now I never make it any other way.
Perfect Pasta Texture
Cooking the pasta directly in the broth rather than separately is what makes this recipe special. The starch released from the pasta naturally thickens the sauce while the pasta absorbs all those savory flavors. Be sure not to overcook the pasta it will continue to soften slightly after you add the cheeses. For the best texture, aim for just past al dente when you add the cheese.
Flavor Boosters
While this basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can elevate the flavors with simple additions. A teaspoon of Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence adds wonderful aromatic notes. For heat lovers, a pinch of red pepper flakes creates pleasant warmth. My personal favorite addition is a tablespoon of fresh lemon zest stirred in at the end which brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness beautifully.
Make-Ahead Options
This pasta dish is ideal for meal prepping. Prepare it on Sunday and portion into microwave-safe containers for quick lunches throughout the week. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to refresh the sauce. The flavors actually develop overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Vegetarian Adaptation
For a meatless version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for a hearty vegetarian alternative that still delivers on protein and flavor. The umami from mushrooms particularly complements the creamy sauce profile.
Kid-Friendly Tweaks
This pasta is already a hit with children, but you can make it even more appealing by using fun pasta shapes like bowties or wheels. The mild, creamy flavor appeals to picky eaters, and you can easily hide finely diced vegetables in the sauce. My nephew who claims to hate all vegetables happily devours this pasta even when I sneak in finely grated zucchini.
Pin This dish offers a delightful balance of comfort and convenience, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you crave a satisfying meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make the sauce extra creamy?
Use full-fat cream cheese for maximum creaminess, and stir until fully melted with the Parmesan before serving.
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, any short pasta such as fusilli or rigatoni also works well. Just adjust simmer time as needed.
- → What protein alternatives suit this dish?
Tender turkey or cooked ham are good substitutes for chicken, giving a similar creamy result.
- → How can I add vegetables?
Add spinach, peas, or broccoli during the last few minutes of simmering for extra color and nutrients.
- → Is this meal suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the dish reheats well. Store in an airtight container in the fridge, and add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
- → What can I serve on the side?
Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.