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Creamy chicken and cream cheese pasta is my go-to when I need a comforting dinner on a busy night. The silky sauce comes together in one pot and the classic flavors never miss. This is an ultra-satisfying meal you can make fast using just a few staples.
This was my weeknight lifesaver when my kids were little and even now everyone asks for seconds. It is so simple but feels like restaurant comfort food at home.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: Makes a great base and holds the creamy sauce well. Look for a good quality brand that does not get mushy.
- Cooked chicken: Diced or shredded rotisserie chicken works great. Choose moist pieces as dry chicken will not be as tasty.
- Chicken broth: Adds flavor and helps cook the pasta. Go for a low-sodium version to control salt.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient. Melt it in gently for the smoothest sauce. Use full fat for the best result.
- Grated Parmesan: Finishes the sauce with nutty sharpness. Buy a wedge and grate fresh for maximum flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring Everything Together:
- Add pasta, cooked chicken, and chicken broth to a large pot. Set over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a steady boil. Stir to keep pasta from sticking and let it bubble until the penne is just tender and the broth has reduced, about ten to twelve minutes. The pasta will soak up the flavor from the chicken and the broth.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Turn the heat down to low. Cut the cream cheese into chunks and add to the pot along with the grated Parmesan. Stir well and gently until the cheeses melt smoothly into the broth. This will take about five minutes. Keep stirring so it stays lump free and ultra creamy.
- Finish to Taste:
- Once your sauce is glossy and coats the pasta, take a taste and season with a sprinkle of black pepper or a hint of nutmeg. Stir once more and serve hot.
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Storage Tips
Once the pasta cools, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and chill in the fridge. Enjoy within three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or more broth to bring back the creaminess. If freezing, skip the Parmesan in the sauce; add it fresh when reheating for best results.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use rotini or rigatoni if you do not have penne. Swap in cooked turkey for chicken if needed. For a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese and add extra broth or milk. If you want more vegetables, toss in peas or spinach just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Top each serving with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper. A simple green salad or garlic bread makes this meal shine. For extra color and flavor, stir in blistered cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms.
Cultural Note
Creamy chicken pastas like this pop up throughout American home kitchens as a comforting blend of Italian and classic Americana. The use of cream cheese is a shortcut for a velvety sauce, bringing nostalgic richness to a busy family table.
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Common Questions
- → How can I make the sauce extra creamy?
Let the cream cheese fully melt into the hot pasta and chicken, stirring gently until the sauce is smooth and silky.
- → Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, shells, fusilli, or rigatoni work well, as long as you adjust the cooking time to achieve a tender texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
- → What vegetables pair well with this pasta?
Spinach, broccoli, or peas can be stirred in just before serving for extra color and nutrition.
- → How do I balance the flavors?
Finish with freshly cracked black pepper or a hint of nutmeg to enhance the savory cheese notes and bring the dish together.