10 Comforting Chicken and Pasta Recipes You Need to Try

If you’re a comfort food lover, chicken and pasta are the dynamic duo you’ve been craving! We’ve whipped up 10 mouthwatering recipes that bring together the heartiness of chicken and the satisfying goodness of pasta. Get ready to dig into some delicious dishes that are perfect for cozy dinners or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.

Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant pesto. It’s a fresh and satisfying dish that captures the essence of comfort food while still being light enough for warm days. The nutty basil pesto adds a rich, herby flavor, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.

This recipe is simple to whip up, perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and greens for an extra crunch and freshness. Serve it warm or cold, and you’ve got a versatile dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 cups rotini pasta
1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup basil pesto
2 cups fresh arugula or spinach
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and arugula.
Add the basil pesto and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing salad.

Spicy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata

Spicy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata is a dish that brings the perfect balance of heat and flavor. The sauce, made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and a kick of red pepper flakes, pairs beautifully with tender pasta and juicy chicken. This recipe is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

Each bite offers a delightful punch of spice that warms the soul, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

12 ounces penne pasta
1 pound chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
Combine: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, tossing everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your spicy chicken penne arrabbiata!

Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Garlic Bread

A bowl of creamy chicken alfredo pasta garnished with parsley.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken and fettuccine pasta in a rich, velvety sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to whip up, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and cream creates a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Pair it with warm garlic bread for the ultimate experience. The crispy bread complements the creamy pasta, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that dreamy sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Garlic bread (for serving)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Combine: Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the shredded chicken and cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with warm garlic bread on the side.

Chicken Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta

Chicken Carbonara is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, bringing together the creaminess of the sauce and the savory crunch of crispy pancetta. This recipe is not only rich in flavor but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious sauce creates a comforting meal that feels gourmet without the hassle.

With a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this satisfying dish. The key lies in balancing the smoky pancetta with the creamy sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. It’s a beloved favorite for both casual and special occasions!

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
4 oz pancetta, diced
2 large eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Pancetta: In a skillet over medium heat, add diced pancetta and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some fat in the pan.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Then, lower the heat and stir in the eggs and Parmesan cheese, mixing quickly to create a sauce. Add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired creaminess.
Combine: Toss the cooked spaghetti and sliced chicken in the skillet with the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve: Plate the carbonara and top with crispy pancetta and chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Carbonara!

One-Pot Chicken and Spinach Pasta

This One-Pot Chicken and Spinach Pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy night in. It combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and pasta all cooked together, making cleanup a breeze. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a comforting meal that feels hearty without being heavy.

Plus, it’s simple to whip up in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a quick weekend dinner. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying plate that the whole family will love!

Ingredients

2 cups rotini pasta
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Pasta and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Stir in the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve warm and enjoy!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Fettuccine

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Fettuccine is a delightful dish that pairs tender grilled chicken with creamy fettuccine pasta, all infused with fresh citrus and herbs. The bright flavors of lemon and the subtle warmth of herbs create a refreshing meal that’s both comforting and invigorating.

This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.
Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is grilling, cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon slices if desired.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. It combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the spicy kick of buffalo chicken, making it a favorite for those who love bold flavors. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.

The combination of tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and a hint of tangy buffalo sauce creates a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Topped with green onions for a fresh crunch, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the macaroni: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture is thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cheese sauce until everything is well combined.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve hot!

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and comforting textures together in a bowl. Featuring tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of olives, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs like basil and parsley adds a refreshing touch to each bite. You’ll find that the dish is hearty yet light, making it ideal for any occasion. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup!

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the orzo pasta and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and fold in cherry tomatoes, black olives, and feta cheese.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Orzo!

Chicken Marsala with Mushroom Pasta

This Chicken Marsala with Mushroom Pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful Marsala wine sauce, complemented by sautéed mushrooms. The pasta serves as a perfect base, soaking up the delightful sauce for a satisfying meal that’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.

The blend of savory chicken and umami-rich mushrooms creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s both hearty and comforting. Plus, this recipe comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy evenings when you still want something special.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup Marsala wine
1 cup chicken broth
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden, about 4-5 minutes.
Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then add the chicken broth.
Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil.
Serve the chicken over the pasta, spooning the mushroom sauce on top, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Bowtie Pasta

A plate of bowtie pasta with garlic butter chicken, garnished with parsley and Parmesan.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Bowtie Pasta is a deliciously simple dish that brings comfort to any meal. The tender chicken is sautéed to golden perfection, coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that infuses the pasta with incredible flavor. The bowtie pasta adds a fun twist, making each bite delightful.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for a weekend dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a plate of happiness in no time!

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz bowtie pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Pour in the remaining butter and toss everything together until well combined. If desired, add a splash of pasta water for creaminess.
Finish: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.