Chef Mitchell preparing Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta while experimenting with different pasta dishes in my kitchen. After several attempts and tweaks to the recipe, I finally perfected the balance of flavors. This dish holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of family gatherings and joyful dinners shared over good food. Now, I’m excited to share it with you!"

With over a decade of experience in the culinary field, I specialize in American cuisine, particularly dinner recipes that bring comfort and joy. My passion for cooking started at a young age and has only grown with time. Creating delicious, home-cooked meals is not just my job; it's my joy.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta served on a plate

Why This Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta Recipe Works

This Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser, packed with rich flavors and creamy textures. The grilled chicken adds a smoky depth, while the heavy cream and Parmesan create a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It's an easy dish that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The technique of grilling the chicken ensures it remains juicy and flavorful, while the quick sauce preparation keeps the dish light yet satisfying. Combining fresh vegetables like spinach and cherry tomatoes not only enhances the flavor but adds vibrant color to the plate. This recipe guarantees a meal that delights the senses.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This enhances the flavor and ensures the chicken is juicy. Additionally, using freshly grated Parmesan will elevate the creaminess of the sauce, making every bite even more delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the components of Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta, and make the sauce, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat everything in a skillet until warmed through. This convenience makes it a fantastic option for meal prep.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the richness and flavor.

The pasta is done when it is al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite but not hard. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The sauce should be creamy and well-combined, ensuring all ingredients are heated through before serving.

Yes, you can freeze Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta. However, it's best to freeze the components separately: the chicken, sauce, and pasta. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, particularly the cream sauce.

Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A light white wine or sparkling water can complement the flavors beautifully. For a complete meal, consider adding a fruit dessert or a light cheesecake.

Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before consuming. If you notice any change in texture or smell, it’s best to discard it to ensure food safety.

Absolutely! You can prepare the components in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just assemble and reheat when you're ready to serve. This makes it an excellent option for busy nights or meal prep, providing a delicious home-cooked meal without the hassle.

The best way to reheat Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta is on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce, stirring gently until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to uneven heating and a change in texture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your pasta dish turns out too dry, it may lack enough sauce or moisture.

Solution: To fix this, add a little chicken broth or cream while reheating, stirring until the desired creaminess is achieved. Always ensure you're using enough sauce when preparing the dish.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn't crispy enough, it may be due to insufficient cooking time on the grill.

Solution: Ensure your grill is preheated and cook the chicken until it reaches a nice golden brown. You can also increase the grill heat during the last few minutes of cooking for added crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Chicken can become overcooked if left on the grill for too long, resulting in dryness.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F. Additionally, marinating the chicken can help retain moisture during cooking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the chicken is undercooked in the center, it can pose a food safety risk.

Recovery: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces to cook it more evenly and thoroughly. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior on the chicken may occur if the grill is too hot or the chicken is cooked too long.

Prevention: To avoid this, adjust the grill temperature to medium and monitor the cooking time closely. Use indirect heat for thicker cuts.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, balance it with acidity, such as adding more lemon juice or vinegar.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, add a little sugar or a splash of cream to mellow the saltiness.

Bland: For bland flavors, enhance with salt, pepper, or herbs to bring out the dish's richness.

Fresh ingredients for Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta

The key ingredients in Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta include chicken breasts, fettuccine, and a creamy sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a rich and satisfying dish that is both comforting and delicious. Fresh vegetables like spinach and tomatoes add vibrant flavor and nutrition.

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for the best outcome. Opt for fresh chicken, good-quality pasta, and freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor. The fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant and delicious your Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta will be.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking. Marinating the chicken beforehand enhances its flavor and tenderness.
  • Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream results in a luscious sauce. If you want a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half, but be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the sauce. Pre-packaged cheese may not yield the same creamy results. Grate your own for the best flavor.
Cooking process for Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta is straightforward and can be easily followed. Begin by grilling the chicken until it's perfectly cooked and juicy, then prepare the pasta while the chicken rests. Making the sauce is a quick process, ensuring that everything comes together seamlessly for a delicious meal.

Achieving perfect results relies on careful timing and balancing flavors. Monitor the cooking of both the chicken and pasta closely, and make sure to combine them in the sauce while everything is still hot. This ensures the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, creating a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Key Technique for Perfect Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta

The most important technique in this recipe is ensuring the chicken is grilled perfectly. This involves proper marination and monitoring the grill's temperature. By maintaining medium heat and flipping the chicken at the right intervals, you achieve that golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For richness
  • 1 cup chicken broth
    For base flavor
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For creaminess
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
    Cut into pieces
  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta
    Dried
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    For grilling
  • 3 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    For flavor
  • 1 cup spinach leaves
    Fresh
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
    Chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken

    Season the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

  2. Grill the Chicken

    Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from grill and let it rest.

  3. Cook the Pasta

    In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  4. Make the Sauce

    In a large skillet, combine the chicken broth and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.

  5. Combine Ingredients

    Add the cooked pasta, grilled chicken, spinach, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated.

  6. Serve

    Plate the creamy chicken pasta and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store leftover Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to ensure it stays creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta with a mixed green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine pairs beautifully with this dish.

Recipe Variations

You can easily customize Creamy Grilled Chicken Pasta by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of chicken.