Italian recipes with pasta and chicken, especially those featuring truly authentic Italian pasta, are some of my absolute go-to meals. I learned to make so many of them from my mom and grandma, and now they’re family favorites!
From quick weeknight dinners to more elegant meals for special occasions, the combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked Italian pasta offers endless possibilities.
Whether you’re craving a creamy Tuscan chicken pasta or a lighter lemon herb chicken with spaghetti, I’ve got an Italian-inspired dish here to satisfy every palate. These recipes are easy to follow, so whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, you’ll be whipping up delicious meals in no time.
Plus, they’re always a hit with the whole family—especially my husband! For a simple baked chicken recipe, check out this baked chicken breast recipe.
Why Italian Recipes with Pasta and Chicken are so Popular
The blend of pasta and chicken in Italian cuisine is a classic for a reason. It’s a comforting and satisfying combination that feels both familiar and special. The heartiness of the pasta paired with the protein-rich chicken creates a balanced and flavorful meal. It’s this delightful harmony of tastes and textures that makes these dishes so beloved. Looking for more chicken dishes? This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is another family favorite.
Classic Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor, while spinach brings a healthy touch. It’s a perfect weeknight meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package directions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
For an extra creamy sauce, use a higher fat content cream. If you don’t have fettuccine, other pasta shapes like penne or linguine work well. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat. For another delicious pasta dish, try this Asparagus Lemon Pasta.
Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine
This Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine is a comforting classic. The creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce perfectly coats the fettuccine and tender chicken, making for a truly satisfying meal. It’s easier than you think to make this restaurant favorite at home! For tips on making a smooth alfredo sauce, check out this helpful resource on how to make Alfredo Sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked fettuccine and add it to the skillet with the chicken and Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips and Variations
For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, add a little pasta water to it while simmering. Broccoli florets or peas make a great addition to this dish. You can also use different types of pasta, such as penne or linguine. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid separating the sauce.
Lemon Herb Chicken with Spaghetti
This Lemon Herb Chicken with Spaghetti is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. The bright citrus notes of the lemon combined with fresh herbs create a delicious sauce that complements the chicken and spaghetti perfectly. If you enjoy lighter pasta dishes, you might also like this Lemon Spaghetti Soup recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the lemon juice and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce reduces slightly.
- Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the chicken and lemon herb sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with lemon zest, if desired.
Tips and Variations
For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but use about half the amount. Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor. Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers would be delicious additions to this dish. You can also use different types of pasta, such as angel hair or linguine. For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce at the end. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Looking for healthy chicken recipes? This article on healthy chicken recipes offers some great ideas.
Chicken and Pasta Soup
This Chicken and Pasta Soup is a hearty and comforting meal, perfect for a chilly evening. Packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and pasta in a flavorful broth, it’s a satisfying and easy-to-make soup the whole family will love. You can find more comforting soup recipes like this Navy Bean Soup on our website.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the shredded cooked chicken and small pasta to the boiling broth.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips and Variations
For a richer broth, use homemade chicken stock or add a bouillon cube. You can add other vegetables to this soup, such as diced potatoes, zucchini, or green beans. For a heartier soup, use a larger pasta shape like rotini or small shells. Add a bay leaf to the soup while simmering for extra flavor, but remember to remove it before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This soup is even more flavorful the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Italians cook pasta with chicken?
Yes, Italians do cook pasta with chicken, though it might not be as deeply rooted in tradition as some other pasta dishes. It’s a popular choice, particularly for family meals at home, because it’s both versatile and satisfying. You’ll find many variations across different regions of Italy.
What dish to make with chicken and pasta?
The options are plentiful! Creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is a favorite, as is the classic chicken Alfredo. If you prefer something lighter, lemon herb chicken with spaghetti is a wonderful choice. And for a comforting meal, chicken and pasta soup always hits the spot. This article features several delicious recipes to inspire you.
What is the most famous Italian pasta dish?
Choosing the most famous Italian pasta dish is tough, as there are so many iconic options! However, dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara (with eggs and pancetta), Cacio e Pepe (with cheese and pepper), and Ragù alla Bolognese (meat sauce) are celebrated worldwide and considered quintessential Italian cuisine.
Is chicken and pasta a good combination?
Absolutely! Chicken and pasta complement each other perfectly. Chicken is a great source of protein, and pasta provides carbohydrates, creating a balanced and nutritious meal. This combination is also incredibly versatile, allowing for a wide range of flavors and sauces, from creamy and rich to light and bright.
Tips for Perfect Italian Recipes with Pasta and Chicken
Here are a few tips to help you create delicious Italian pasta and chicken dishes every time:
- Pasta Perfection: Cook your pasta al dente, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. The pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the package directions indicate.
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference. Opt for fresh, flavorful vegetables and good quality chicken. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese also adds a much richer flavor than pre-grated.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be afraid to season your chicken generously with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices. This will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking chicken, give it enough space in the pan so it browns properly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Save the Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, reserve about a cup of the starchy cooking water. This can be added to your sauce to help it thicken and cling to the pasta.
- Fresh Herbs: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs. They add a bright, vibrant flavor to your dishes. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate aroma.
Conclusion
From creamy Tuscan delights to zesty lemon herb creations, Italian recipes with pasta and chicken offer a world of flavor possibilities. These dishes are not only delicious but also versatile and family-friendly, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I encourage you to try these recipes and explore the different variations. There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing a delicious, home-cooked Italian meal with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of Italy!