Get ready to elevate your pasta game without breaking a sweat! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and easy canned chicken pasta recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy buffalo baked pasta, and from classic tomato basil skillet to Mediterranean artichoke delight, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for quick and easy meals, canned chicken is an underrated ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. And when paired with pasta, it becomes a match made in heaven! So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top 20 easy canned chicken pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Canned Chicken Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the convenience of canned chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, all topped with melted parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked canned chicken
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream, cooked chicken, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and toss until coated.
5. Transfer pasta to serving dish, top with parmesan cheese, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Canned Chicken Pasta Bake
A twist on the classic pasta bake, this Spicy Buffalo Canned Chicken Pasta Bake combines the flavors of buffalo chicken and pasta for a spicy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta
– 1 can (12 oz) chunky buffalo chicken
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, buffalo chicken, marinara sauce, and olive oil. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Canned Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the convenience of canned chicken with the brightness of lemon and garlic flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of cooked chicken breast, drained and flaked
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. minced garlic
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine flaked chicken, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. Toss to coat.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top and toss again.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking pasta)
Cheesy Broccoli Canned Chicken Pasta Casserole
This Cheesy Broccoli Canned Chicken Pasta Casserole is a satisfying and easy-to-make meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With the combination of pasta, chicken, broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
– 1 cup cooked, shredded canned chicken
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, broccoli, and shredded chicken. Mix well.
4. Combine cooked pasta, soup mixture, and milk in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Canned Chicken Pasta Skillet
This quick and delicious pasta skillet combines the flavors of tomato, basil, and chicken for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb canned chicken breast, drained
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in canned chicken breast, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta with tomato-chicken mixture. Top with chopped basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Alfredo Canned Chicken Pasta with Spinach
This comforting pasta dish combines the convenience of canned chicken with the richness of Alfredo sauce and the added nutrition of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked canned chicken, drained and flaked
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, warm the Alfredo sauce over low heat.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, canned chicken, and wilted spinach in a large serving dish. Pour the warmed Alfredo sauce over the top and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Canned Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A creamy and flavorful one-pot pasta dish that combines the richness of pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and canned chicken for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked canned chicken
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tbsp. pesto
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the cooked chicken, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the chicken and pesto mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Canned Chicken Pasta with Black Beans
This recipe combines the convenience of canned chicken and black beans with the heartiness of pasta, all wrapped up in a spicy Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 can (10 oz) chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add flaked chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in black beans and cooked pasta. Heat through.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Canned Chicken Pasta Primavera
A delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the convenience of canned chicken with fresh vegetables and pasta, all cooked in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (10 oz) chicken breast in water
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne, or rotini)
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the canned chicken, frozen vegetables, chicken broth, and reserved pasta water to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cajun Canned Chicken Pasta with Bell Peppers
Transform canned chicken into a spicy and satisfying pasta dish, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the flaked chicken, Cajun seasoning, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken-bell pepper mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Bacon Ranch Canned Chicken Pasta Salad
A creamy and savory twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the convenience of canned chicken with the rich flavors of bacon and ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine canned chicken, crumbled bacon, and cooked pasta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and ranch dressing until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken-pasta mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Canned Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta
Experience the flavors of Greece with this quick and easy pasta dish featuring canned chicken, olives, feta cheese, and Mediterranean herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 can (14 oz) Greek-style chicken breast in water
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add canned chicken, olives, and oregano to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Canned Chicken Pasta with Mushrooms
This recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the convenience of canned chicken and sautéed mushrooms, all infused with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 can (10 oz) of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in flaked chicken, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. In a small saucepan, melt remaining 1 tbsp of butter over low heat. Add canned chicken and stir until well coated.
6. Combine cooked pasta, garlic-mushroom mixture, and garlic butter sauce; toss to combine.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Canned Chicken Pasta with Corn and Cheese
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional pasta dishes, combining the flavors of BBQ sauce, canned chicken, corn, and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (any shape)
– 1 can (12 oz) chicken breast in BBQ sauce, drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the drained canned chicken and stir to break apart any large pieces.
4. Add the corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken and corn mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Canned Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the convenience of canned chicken, resulting in a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 can (12.5 oz) chicken breast in water
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Drain the liquid from the canned chicken and shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large skillet, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add shredded chicken to the skillet and stir until coated with the peanut sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture in the skillet. Toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and green onions. If desired, add red pepper flakes for added heat.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Canned Chicken Pasta with Artichokes
This recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of canned chicken and artichoke hearts, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any day. With its creamy sauce and tangy artichoke flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pasta of your choice
– 1 (14 oz) can chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in canned chicken, artichoke hearts, heavy cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and stir until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Canned Chicken Pasta with Avocado
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the convenience of canned chicken with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced chicken breast in taco seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (4 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic, onion, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in canned chicken breast and black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture.
5. Top with sliced avocado and sprinkle with cilantro and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Wine Canned Chicken Pasta with Asparagus
This recipe combines the flavors of white wine, chicken, and asparagus to create a delicious and comforting pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked canned chicken (drained)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the garlic, white wine, and canned chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and asparagus mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Herb Canned Chicken Pasta with Zucchini
A flavorful and effortless one-pot pasta dish that combines the convenience of canned chicken with the freshness of zucchini and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) of chicken breast in water, drained
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the sliced zucchinis to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the canned chicken, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and zucchini mixture in a large bowl. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Canned Chicken Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the convenience of canned chicken with the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cooked canned chicken, drained
– 1 cup roasted red peppers, diced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic powder and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in cooked canned chicken, roasted red peppers, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with these easy and delicious canned chicken recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy buffalo, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a cheesy broccoli casserole or a Mediterranean artichoke pasta dish. Maybe you prefer a lighter option like a lemon garlic salad or a one-pot primavera? Whatever your taste buds desire, this article has got you covered with 20 mouth-watering canned chicken pasta recipes to try tonight!
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