A hug in a bowl – that’s the best way I can describe Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta. Imagine perfectly cooked penne tossed with golden bites of chicken, all swirled in a luscious, garlicky cheese sauce and topped with a buttery, crunchy finish. It’s that irresistible combo of creamy comfort and crispy joy. Whether you’re cooking for the family or want a weekday treat that tastes like a weekend splurge, this dish shines. Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta is the type Main Course.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta comes together with just a handful of pantry basics, but each ingredient truly earns its place. The magic is all about getting that perfect creamy base, a juicy hit of chicken, and a golden, shatteringly crisp topping. Here’s what makes every bite unforgettable:
- Penne pasta: Its sturdy shape traps that dreamy sauce and gives a perfect bite every time.
- Olive oil: Adds subtle flavor and helps the chicken get deliciously golden.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, they soak up all the seasoning and stay juicy within the creamy sauce.
- Garlic powder: Gives the chicken a deep, savory note that enhances every mouthful.
- Paprika: Lends a gentle smokiness and gorgeous color to the chicken pieces.
- Salt and pepper: The classic duo for perfect seasoning from start to finish.
- Butter: Melts down to form the tasty base of the sauce and gives extra richness.
- Fresh garlic (minced): Sautéed for real garlicky punch that perfumes the entire dish.
- All-purpose flour: Whisked into the butter to create a velvety roux, thickening the sauce just right.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and keeps the sauce from feeling heavy.
- Heavy cream: The secret to the pasta’s ultra-creamy texture—don’t skimp!
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings that salty, nutty flavor and melts into the sauce for pure indulgence.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, pull-apart cheesiness everyone craves.
- Crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs: The “crunchy” crown—use what you have for a perfect topping.
- Olive oil (for topping): Helps the crumbs or crackers toast up beautifully under the broiler.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): A quick garnish for freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish.
How to Make Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your penne pasta in a big pot of well-salted, boiling water. Follow the package directions for that ideal al dente bite. Once drained, set the noodles aside, but don’t rinse them—they’ll cling onto the sauce even better this way!
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat up two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Sprinkle your chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, tossing to evenly coat. Place the seasoned chicken into the pan and cook until outsides are golden and insides are no longer pink, about five to six minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep it nearby.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, let two tablespoons of butter melt, then toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly, and cook for another minute or two to get rid of that raw flour taste—this makes your velvety roux. Slowly drizzle in the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring; the sauce will thicken after a few minutes of gentle bubbling.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella into your thickened sauce, stirring until everything melts into smooth, cheesy perfection. This is where Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta really earns its name—the sauce should lightly coat a spoon, rich but never gloopy.
Step 5: Bring It Together
Add both the drained pasta and the cooked chicken into your creamy skillet. Give everything a gentle toss until every piece is hugged by the sauce. If you crave that oven-fresh finish, transfer everything to a baking dish—otherwise, you can keep using your oven-friendly skillet.
Step 6: Get Crunchy
Mix crushed crackers or panko with a tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl. Scatter the breadcrumb mix generously on top of your pasta, and let it sizzle under the broiler for two to three minutes—watch closely! You’re looking for a topping that’s golden and crisp but never burnt.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Shower the finished Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta with plenty of freshly chopped parsley just before serving. That little lift of green adds brightness to all the rich flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
A flourish of fresh parsley is a must—it lifts the savory richness of the dish and adds a dash of color. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan over the top for those who can’t get enough cheese. Lemon zest or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also punch up flavor without much effort.
Side Dishes
You can’t go wrong with a simple green salad and a tangy vinaigrette to balance out all the creaminess. A basket of warm, crusty bread is the other must-have, perfect for scooping up any last dollops of sauce. Add roasted broccoli or garlicky green beans if you crave something heartier alongside your Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Individual ramekins make for an adorable dinner party plating, especially with that golden crunchy top baked on just before serving. Want an even more comforting vibe? Serve family-style right from the skillet or baking dish at the center of the table, and let everyone help themselves. You can also serve Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta in hollowed-out bread bowls for a playful, delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta cool down completely before storing it in an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, where it will keep fresh for up to three days. The topping may soften, but the flavors deepen!
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta. Place it in freezer-safe containers (ideally without the crunchy topping, which is best added fresh). It’ll keep well for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place your pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 15 to 20 minutes). For stovetop reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. If you want to revive the crunch, sprinkle new breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top and broil briefly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for catching that creamy sauce, feel free to swap in rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli for a fun change of texture.
Is Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta kid-friendly?
Definitely! The combination of cheesy sauce and crunchy topping typically makes this pasta a big hit with kids. You can leave out the paprika if your little ones are sensitive to spice.
How can I add vegetables to this dish?
It’s easy to amp up the nutrition by stirring in sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli florets, or even sweet peas right before the final bake. They’ll melt seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
Can I use leftover or rotisserie chicken?
Of course! Shred or cube cooked rotisserie chicken, then stir it into the sauce with the pasta for an even quicker Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta. It saves time and still tastes amazing.
Can this dish be made in advance for a dinner party?
Yes! Assemble Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta up to the point of adding the crunchy topping, then cover and refrigerate. Add the crumbs and broil just before serving so everyone gets to break through that golden crust.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving the coziness of a creamy pasta bake with just the right amount of crunch, treat yourself to Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and sure to brighten both busy weeknights and special occasions. Dive in and see why it’s a favorite in so many kitchens—you’ll love every bite!
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Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal with this Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, al dente penne, and a luscious cream sauce topped with a golden, crunchy crust – a delightful combination that will please the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for topping)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil penne pasta in salted water, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic in butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add chicken broth and cream. Stir in cheeses until smooth.
- Combine and Bake: Mix pasta and chicken with the sauce, transfer to a baking dish if desired. Top with a mixture of crushed crackers or panko with olive oil. Broil until golden and crunchy.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- For added veggies, consider tossing in some spinach or broccoli before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Broil
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
