Pasta Milano

Discover the ultimate recipe for Pasta Milano, a creamy, restaurant-quality pasta dish made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cheese sauce. This easy-to-make dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With hearty Farfalle pasta, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh basil, this dish is packed with flavor and simple enough for home cooks. If you love quick, comforting, and delicious pasta recipes, this one is a must-try! Perfectly customizable for families or dinner parties.

Ingredients

US Customary (Metric)

• 1 pound chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 12 oz. mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (see note below)
• 1½ cups half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 pound Farfalle (bowtie pasta)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside, keeping it warm if possible.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same pan, add onions, mushrooms, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 15–20 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, and the mushrooms are golden brown.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   Return the cooked chicken to the pan, seasoning it with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, butter, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Pour the mixture into the pan with the chicken and vegetables. Simmer gently, partially covered, for about 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   While the sauce simmers, cook the Farfalle according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
5. Combine and Serve:
   Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing it gently with the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and full of hearty ingredients that satisfy every craving.
• One-Pan Magic: The chicken and sauce come together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Restaurant-Quality: A gourmet pasta dish you can make at home in under an hour.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe always impresses.

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Tips

• Chicken: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Pasta: Make sure to salt the pasta water generously for the best flavor.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to thin it out.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor, or rehydrate dry ones in hot water before chopping.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Pasta Alternatives: Try penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
• Cheese Upgrade: Mix in some Asiago or Romano cheese for an extra cheesy kick.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?
Absolutely! Heavy cream will make the sauce even richer.

Can this recipe be frozen?
The sauce and chicken freeze well, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

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Serving

Serve this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For extra indulgence, top with grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.

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Suggestions

• Garnish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
• Pair with a glass of Chardonnay or a light red wine for a sophisticated touch.
• Add some toasted pine nuts or crispy bacon bits for extra texture and flavor.

Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Pasta Milano that’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection!