Are you tired of the same old creamy pasta dishes? Look no further! We’ve got 18 simple and easy chicken pasta recipes that are cream-free, but still packed with flavor. From classic combinations like lemon garlic to more adventurous pairings like roasted red pepper and zucchini, we’ve got a recipe for every taste.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting the best of Italian cuisine while adding a few international twists. Say goodbye to heavy sauces and hello to bright flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a seasoned chef, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen arsenal.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started with our first recipe…
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Brighten up your pasta night with this refreshing Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe! Tender chicken, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic come together in a harmonious union that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– 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 the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and add garlic. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in lemon juice and cook for 1-2 minutes or until sauce has slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and lemon-garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Tomato Basil Chicken Spaghetti
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, and the freshness of basil, all wrapped up with a delicious spaghetti twist. A perfect weeknight dinner option that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Chicken Penne
Quick and flavorful, this Spinach and Chicken Penne dish is a perfect weeknight meal. With tender chicken, wilted spinach, and al dente penne pasta, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add spinach leaves and wilt into the garlic mixture.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the spinach mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Add cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and basil. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive Oil Garlic Chicken Linguine
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple for any occasion, featuring tender chicken, flavorful garlic, and silky linguine pasta all tied together with the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked linguine and reserved pasta water in a large bowl. Toss with olive oil, garlic, and chicken.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and colorful dish that combines the richness of roasted red peppers, juicy chicken, and savory herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add roasted red peppers, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Toss with roasted chicken and red pepper sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Pesto Chicken Farfalle
This recipe combines the flavors of basil pesto with succulent chicken and creamy farfalle pasta, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 12 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let cool.
4. Cut cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked farfalle pasta, pesto sauce, and chicken pieces. Toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini and Chicken Fettuccine
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the best of summer’s bounty with rich, savory chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic in olive oil until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add zucchinis to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in flour, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine with chicken and zucchini mixture; toss to combine.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over top and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
This hearty one-pot dish combines tender chicken, nutty orzo, and the savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté chicken in a little oil until cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. Add chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and oregano to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in cooked orzo and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Herb Chicken Rigatoni
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of chicken, garlic, and herbs with al dente rigatoni. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz rigatoni pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add garlic, parsley, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked rigatoni with the chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Chicken Rotini
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and pasta in a delicious and easy-to-make rotini dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz. rotini pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add broccoli, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Angel Hair
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying twist on classic pasta dishes. Tender chicken and earthy mushrooms come together in a rich and creamy sauce, served over delicate angel hair pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 8 ounces angel hair pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken-mushroom mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Chicken Fusilli
This vibrant pasta dish combines juicy cherry tomatoes with flavorful chicken and fusilli pasta, making it a perfect weeknight meal or special occasion. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this tasty creation in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and start to soften.
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and chicken mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Artichoke and Chicken Bowtie Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the tender goodness of chicken, artichokes, and bowtie pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bowtie pasta
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 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 olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add artichoke hearts, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Penne
Satisfy your cravings with this sweet and savory Balsamic Glazed Chicken Penne recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich balsamic glaze come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and 1 tablespoon of the chicken’s pan juices. Pour the glaze over the chicken and toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the glazed chicken and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Asparagus Linguine
This recipe combines the freshness of asparagus with the richness of chicken in a quick and easy linguine dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this meal is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add garlic and asparagus to the same skillet. Cook until asparagus is tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss with asparagus and pasta water.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Olive Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Herbed Chicken and Olive Spaghetti recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mixed herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
5. In a separate pan, combine cooked spaghetti and sliced olives. Toss to combine.
6. Serve chicken mixture over spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Bell Pepper Farfalle
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, bell peppers, and Italian herbs with farfalle pasta, creating a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup farfalle pasta
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in dried oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked farfalle pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parsley Lemon Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the freshness of parsley, and the tender bite of chicken to create a delightful pasta dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, lemon juice, and parsley to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Toss cooked pasta with chicken mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight! This article features 18 simple and easy chicken pasta recipes that don’t require cream. From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta and Tomato Basil Chicken Spaghetti, to flavorful twists like Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Pasta and Pesto Chicken Farfalle, there’s something for every taste bud. Each recipe is carefully crafted with fresh herbs and spices, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal without the need for heavy cream. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy a world of pasta possibilities!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
