Delicious Christmas Chicken Pasta: A Festive One-Pot Wonder

Embrace the holiday spirit with a dish that’s both elegant and effortlessly simple! This Christmas chicken pasta brings festive flavors straight to your table without the usual holiday stress. It’s a wonderfully creamy, hearty meal, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a delightful gathering. The best part? It all comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Chicken Pasta

This festive chicken pasta recipe is designed to make your holiday cooking enjoyable and stress-free. You’ll find countless reasons to make it your new seasonal favorite.

• Quick & Easy Holiday Meal: Perfect for busy parents and beginners, this dish requires minimal effort for maximum flavor during the festive rush.
• Simple One-Pot Cleanup: Prepare and cook everything in a single pan, which means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying the season.
• Rich, Creamy, Festive Flavor: Indulge in a luxurious sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and holiday spices, making every bite of this Christmas chicken pasta a treat.
• Perfect for Cozy Gatherings: This pasta dish is comforting and satisfying, ideal for sharing with loved ones around a warm table.
• Impressive Yet Effortless: While simple to make, the vibrant colors and delightful taste of this creamy chicken pasta will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these fresh, wholesome ingredients to create your delectable Christmas chicken pasta dish. Each component contributes to the rich, festive flavors that make this recipe so special.

• 650 g Boneless & skinless chicken breast: About 4 breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• 1 tbsp Olive oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken and building a flavorful base.
• 3 Garlic cloves: Peeled and crushed, these add a wonderful aromatic depth.
• 170 g Sun dried tomatoes: Drained and very finely chopped, they provide a sweet and tangy burst. These flavorful additions are not just for taste; they also offer various nutritional benefits of sun-dried tomatoes.
• 1 tsp Oregano: A classic herb that complements the Mediterranean flavors.
• 2 tsp Paprika: Adds a lovely color and mild, sweet pepperiness.
• 250 g Dried pasta: Such as penne or rotini, perfect for holding the creamy sauce.
• 650 ml Chicken stock: Low sodium is recommended for better flavor control.
• 150 ml Double cream: Or heavy cream, for a rich and luxurious sauce.
• 50 g Parmesan: Freshly grated for the best melting and savory finish.
• 120 g Spinach: Adds beautiful color and a touch of freshness and nutrition.
• Freshly ground black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.

Notes & Substitutions

You can easily adjust this festive chicken pasta recipe to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make a juicy alternative to breasts.
• Stock Options: Use vegetable stock for a lighter base or to make it a vegetarian meal (omitting chicken).
• Cream Alternatives: Half-and-half or a block of cream cheese can create a similar creamy texture.
• Pasta Shapes: Any short, sturdy pasta shape like farfalle or rigatini works beautifully here.
• Fresh Herbs: Elevate the flavor further with a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme.

Essential Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to prepare this delightful Christmas chicken pasta. Keep your kitchen simple and organized!

• Large, deep skillet or Dutch oven: Perfect for one-pot cooking, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For safely preparing your chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient proportions.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and scraping the pan efficiently.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Christmas Chicken Pasta

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Christmas chicken pasta. This simple one-pot method makes cooking a joy, even for beginners. You’ll have a festive meal ready in no time!

1. Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken well with a good sprinkling of freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over a medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all sides are starting to color to a light golden brown.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to low. Add the crushed garlic cloves, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika to the pan. Stir continuously for 3-5 minutes until the garlic softens and becomes fragrant.
4. Add Pasta & Stock: Pour in the dried pasta and chicken stock. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Place the lid securely on the pan.
5. Simmer: Cook the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender to your liking and most of the liquid has been absorbed by the pasta.
6. Stir in Cream & Spinach: Turn the heat to its lowest setting. Add the fresh spinach and double cream to the pan. Stir very well for 1-3 minutes until the spinach has completely wilted and the cream is heated through. At this point, check that the chicken is cooked through.
7. Finish with Parmesan: Turn off the heat completely. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it fully melts into the creamy sauce, making it incredibly luscious.
8. Season: Taste the Christmas chicken pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt and freshly ground black pepper.
9. Serve Immediately: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve your festive pasta hot for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Perfect Christmas Chicken Pasta

Achieve the best results for your Christmas chicken pasta every time with these helpful tips and tricks.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Sear chicken in batches if your pan isn’t large enough to prevent steaming instead of browning.
• Build Flavor: After searing, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken stock or white wine to scrape up any flavorful browned bits.
• Check Pasta: Always cook pasta until al dente – tender with a slight bite – for optimal texture in your festive chicken pasta.
• Gentle Heat: Do not boil the cream vigorously once added, as this can cause it to separate. Keep the heat low.
• Fresh Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for superior melting quality and a richer, more authentic flavor.
• Troubleshooting Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more stock or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes on low heat.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Festive Variations

Elevate your Christmas chicken pasta experience with these ideas for serving, storage, and exciting variations.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this hearty chicken pasta with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
• Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Garnish your festive chicken pasta with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma.

Storage & Reheating

For optimal food safety, it’s crucial to follow recommended USDA guidelines for storing cooked chicken.

• Refrigerate any leftover Christmas chicken pasta in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Add a splash of extra chicken stock or milk when reheating to bring the sauce back to its original consistency.

Festive Variations

• Cranberry Brightness: Stir in a few dried cranberries at the end for a delightful tart sweetness.
• Orange Zest: A tiny bit of orange zest provides a beautiful, subtle hint of citrus that brightens the dish.
• Mushroom Earthiness: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an extra layer of savory depth.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Jarred roasted red peppers, chopped and added, contribute vibrant color and sweetness.
• Extra Spice: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes along with the paprika.
• Holiday Herbs: Incorporate additional festive herbs like dried sage or thyme for a more pronounced holiday aroma.

Nutrition Information

This nutrition information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed for our Christmas chicken pasta. Exact values may vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.

Disclaimer: This is an approximate nutritional estimate and should not be considered professional medical or nutritional advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Find quick answers to common questions about preparing this delightful Christmas chicken pasta.

• Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cutting and cooking.
• What type of pasta is best? Any short, sturdy pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle works well. They hold the creamy sauce perfectly in this Christmas chicken pasta.
• Can I make this dairy-free? You can try using dairy-free cream and Parmesan alternatives, though the flavor profile may change slightly.
• How can I make it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce with the spices.
• Can this recipe be prepared ahead? While best fresh, you can prep the chicken and chop ingredients ahead. Cook the pasta closer to serving for the best texture.
• Why is my sauce too thin? Ensure you let the pasta simmer until most liquid is absorbed. If still too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water).

Conclusion

This Christmas chicken pasta is truly a holiday miracle – a dish that delivers incredible festive flavor and comfort with remarkable ease. It’s perfect for those busy December evenings when you crave something special but lack the time for elaborate preparations. Embrace the simplicity of this one-pot wonder and savor every creamy, herby bite. Give this recipe a try this holiday season, and don’t forget to share your delightful creations with us!

Delicious Christmas Chicken Pasta: A Festive One-Pot Wonder

This creamy one-pot Christmas chicken pasta blends juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, festive herbs, and spinach in a rich Parmesan sauce. A cozy, colorful holiday dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up.

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Course: Dinner, Holiday, Main Course

Cuisine: Festive, Italian

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 650 g boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 170 g sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped and drained
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2 tsp paprika
• 250 g dried pasta (penne or rotini)
• 650 ml chicken stock (low sodium recommended)
• 150 ml double cream or heavy cream
• 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 120 g fresh spinach
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting Board
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• wooden spoon or spatula

Method

 

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Reduce heat and add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir for 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add dried pasta and chicken stock. Stir, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in spinach and cream. Cook 1–3 minutes until spinach wilts and cream is warmed through.
6. Turn off heat. Stir in Parmesan until melted and sauce is creamy.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a festive twist, add orange zest or dried cranberries. Be sure not to overcook the cream — keep heat low. If the sauce is too thick, stir in more stock or cream; if too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes.

Taya Bennett

Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com