Italian Chicken Pasta
Dive into the flavors of Italy with this creamy, zesty Italian Chicken Pasta that combines wholesome ingredients and bold flavors for a comforting meal that’s easy to make any night of the week. Whether you have fresh chicken or some leftovers from yesterday’s roast, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious dish that’s sure to please.
This Italian Chicken Pasta is perfect for a family dinner or when you need a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s a delightful way to combine the ease of pasta with the rich flavors of seasoned tomatoes and creamy cheese. Would you like to add any specific side dishes or tweaks to this recipe?
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing (or use homemade)
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (or use leftover shredded chicken)
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 (8 oz. each) cans tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 4 oz. Philadelphia Cream Cheese, cubed and softened
- 2 1/2 cups uncooked whole grain pasta (or 4 cups cooked)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions:
- Start the Sauté: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the Italian dressing. Once it’s sizzling, toss in the chicken pieces and chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Add the Sauce and Simmer: To the skillet, add the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, chopped artichoke hearts, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir, then cover and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in the cubed cream cheese, mixing until it’s thoroughly blended into the sauce.
- Pasta Time: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the sauce. Cover the skillet again and continue simmering. Stir occasionally and cook according to the pasta package instructions—usually about 10 minutes for whole grain rotini—allowing the pasta to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Final Touch: Once the pasta is tender and the dish is creamy and bubbling, stir in the chopped parsley or basil for a fresh herbal note.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dish out this creamy, tangy pasta into bowls, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that brings a touch of Italy to your dining table.
