Chicken Paprika Pasta in a Silky Cream Sauce
A delightful, creamy pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich, smoky flavor profile, perfect for comfort meals any night of the week.
Ingredients
Pasta ingredients
- 12 oz 12 oz penne or your favorite pasta Hollow shape perfect for holding creamy sauce.
Chicken ingredients
- 1 lb 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced Tender and juicy.
Cooking ingredients
- 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon olive oil Luscious foundation for sautéing.
- 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon butter Enhances creaminess.
- 1 small 1 small onion, finely chopped Lending sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves 3 garlic cloves, minced Brings robust flavor.
- 1 medium 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced Adding vibrant color.
- 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon smoked paprika Imparts deep smoky undertone.
- 1 tsp 1 teaspoon sweet paprika Contributes mild warmth.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) For a hint of heat.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Adding herbaceous note.
- 3/4 cup 3/4 cup chicken broth Enriching the dish.
- 1 cup 1 cup heavy cream Key to silky sauce.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Enhances creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential to round out the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped For a bright, fresh garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add penne pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the olive oil and butter. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden-brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sliced bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add smoked paprika, sweet paprika, chili flakes, and thyme. Toast for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Mix in grated parmesan cheese until melted.
- Return sautéed chicken to skillet, then fold in cooked penne pasta, ensuring all is coated in sauce.
- Let simmer on low for 2-3 minutes, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a healthier alternative, consider whole wheat pasta or grilled chicken. Preserve leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.