Name: Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 pounds chicken breast or thighs (chopped into bite-sized pieces); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 jar pasta sauce (your favorite brand or homemade); 3 cups fresh pasta (or cooked pasta); 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (shredded); ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Italian chicken pasta. The combination of tender chicken, rich pasta sauce, and gooey cheese makes for a meal that feels both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this Italian chicken pasta recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself making it time and time again.

Reasons to Love Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Italian chicken pasta recipe is a true winner for many reasons. First, it brings together the heartiness of chicken with the comforting embrace of pasta, creating a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. The use of fresh ingredients means you can enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and can even be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or herbs. Lastly, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.

Gather These Ingredients

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

1 tablespoon olive oil – This will be used to sauté the chicken, adding flavor and helping it brown nicely.
2 pounds chicken breast or thighs – Chopped into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of heat and enhances the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – A must-have for that aromatic, savory taste.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – This blend brings an authentic Italian flavor to the dish.
1 jar pasta sauce – Choose your favorite brand or homemade variety for the sauce base.
3 cups fresh pasta – Or the same amount of cooked pasta if you’re short on time.
8 ounces mozzarella cheese – A perfect melty topping that adds richness.
½ cup Parmesan cheese – For that extra cheesy goodness and flavor depth.

What’s in the Gear List

To make this Italian chicken pasta recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools:

Large skillet or frying pan – For cooking the chicken and combining everything together.
Large pot – To cook the pasta, ensuring it’s al dente.
Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring the chicken and pasta.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy with your ingredients.
Cheese grater (optional) – If you’re using block Parmesan, this will come in handy.

Step-by-Step: Italian Chicken Pasta Recipe

Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 3 cups of fresh pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped chicken pieces. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Combine with Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the jar of pasta sauce. Stir well to combine, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Mix in the Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture. Give it a gentle stir, allowing the cheese to melt into the dish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Adaptations for Special Diets

This Italian chicken pasta recipe is quite adaptable. Here are some variations to suit different dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or lentils.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta.
Extra Veggies: Add in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even experienced cooks sometimes stumble when making this dish. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Not seasoning the chicken adequately before cooking can lead to bland flavors.
Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture, so be sure to follow the cooking time closely.
Skipping the baking step means missing out on that delicious, bubbly cheese topping.
Using low-quality pasta sauce can detract from the overall flavor, so choose a good brand or make your own.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Italian chicken pasta recipe is great for meal prep or making ahead of time. Here’s how to store it:

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw?

Yes! If you have cooked chicken on hand, simply add it to the skillet with the sauce and heat it through before adding the pasta. This can save you time.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

You can use any pasta you enjoy, but fresh pasta or classic shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli hold sauce well and make for a delightful texture.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can add the sautéed chicken and sauce to a slow cooker with the uncooked pasta and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the chicken while cooking, or stir in some diced jalapeños or hot Italian sausage.

The Takeaway

This Italian chicken pasta recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, comforting meals. With its simple preparation and delicious results, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, the engaging flavors and cheesy goodness will surely delight everyone at the table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a hearty plate of Italian comfort food that’s sure to satisfy.