Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken

Looking for the best creamy Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken recipe? This easy-to-make dish features tender, seared chicken, a rich Parmesan garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked angel hair pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a quick, restaurant-quality meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Pair it with garlic bread and a crisp salad for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Ingredients

Chicken:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Salt/pepper or lemon pepper seasoning (see Variations and Substitutions)
• 2 tablespoons flour

Pasta/Sauce:

• ½ cup dry white wine (see Variations and Substitutions)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup Half and Half (half milk, half cream)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• ½ lb. angel hair pasta
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ¾ teaspoon each: mustard powder, oregano, onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon each: salt, pepper

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Instructions

Prep Work:

1. In a bowl, combine chicken broth, Half and Half, and the seasonings. Set aside.
2. Measure out all remaining ingredients to ensure smooth preparation.
3. Place a measuring cup (1 cup or larger) in the colander you’ll use to drain the pasta as a reminder to save pasta water.

Sear the Chicken:

1. Slice the chicken breast in half lengthwise to create two thinner pieces. Cover with plastic wrap and pound to about 1-inch thick (it will plump slightly when cooked). Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt/pepper or lemon pepper seasoning. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over each piece and rub to coat evenly. This adds texture and prevents sticking.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest for 10 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.

Make the Sauce:

1. Turn the skillet heat off and add the white wine. Set the heat to medium and use a silicone spatula to scrape up the browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the skillet. Let it bubble gently and reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, start boiling water for the pasta.
3. Add the butter and garlic to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned and fragrant.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth and Half and Half mixture in small splashes, stirring continuously to ensure smooth incorporation.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cover partially and keep warm.

Boil the Pasta:

1. Salt the boiling water and add the angel hair pasta. Cook until just al dente, about 4 minutes. Use kitchen tongs to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving at least 1 cup of pasta water.

Combine and Serve:

1. Add the pasta to the sauce and gently toss with kitchen tongs to coat. Stir in the cooked chicken.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water in small splashes, tossing gently until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Rich and Creamy: The sauce is infused with Parmesan and garlic for a decadent flavor.
• Restaurant-Quality: Elegant yet simple, this pasta is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.

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Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F for perfect doneness.
• Stir the sauce continuously when adding liquid to avoid lumps and ensure a creamy texture.
• Reserve more pasta water than you think you’ll need; it’s great for adjusting the sauce consistency.

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Variations and Substitutions

• No Wine? Replace with an equal amount of chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk instead of Half and Half, and substitute dairy-free Parmesan.
• Protein Swap: Try shrimp, sliced sausage, or tofu as an alternative to chicken.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work well as substitutes.

2. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.

3. Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored separately. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Classic Pairings: Serve with a fresh green salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.