Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta for a Quick Weeknight Meal

🔥 KITCHEN FINDS

3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out

These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.

This Kitchen Gadget Sprays AND Pours Oil

One bottle for spraying, pouring and keeping cooking oil close at hand.

Check It Out on Amazon →

This Weird Little Tool Slices Watermelon for You

Slice, cube and grab watermelon with one ridiculously simple little gadget.

Check It Out on Amazon →

Mix & Pour Pancake Batter Without the Mess

Mix the batter right in the bottle, then squeeze it straight onto the griddle.

Check It Out on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce infused with fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packs a punch of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Get ready to impress your family or whip up a comforting dinner for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy basil chicken pasta is a weeknight winner for several reasons. It’s quick to prepare, loaded with flavor, and delivers that comforting pasta experience we all crave. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Flavor-packed: Fresh basil and garlic create a delightful aroma.
• Comfort food: Creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Family-friendly: A dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Stir in the chopped basil and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Results

• Make sure to not overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less pasta water.
• For a touch of brightness, squeeze some lemon juice over the finished dish.

Easy Variations

• Swap the penne for your favorite pasta shape, such as fettuccine or rigatoni.
• Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Substitute grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for the chicken for a different twist.
• Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

What to Serve With It

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for dipping in the creamy sauce.
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
• A glass of white wine to complement the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS

Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out

Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.

❤️ Love This Recipe? Save Your Favorites

Keep all those recipes you actually want to make again together in your own recipe book.

See It on Amazon →

🔥 Yep, Snoop Dogg Has a Cookbook

From Crook to Cook brings Snoop's spin to comfort food, classics and seriously fun recipes.

Check It Out on Amazon →

🥗 100+ Meals You Can Make Ahead

Simple make-ahead recipes and quick-assembly meals for making the week way easier.

See It on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce.

Recipe Card