Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Cellentani recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked cellentani pasta, and a luscious, creamy sauce.
What is Creamy Chicken Cellentani?
Creamy Chicken Cellentani is a hearty pasta dish known for its rich, velvety sauce and satisfying flavors. It’s a go-to for anyone seeking a comforting and delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved.
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cellentani pasta
- 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ons
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.
Cooking the Cellentani Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta until al dente, as per package instructions.
Making the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Slowly mix in Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Combining Everything
- Toss cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce.
- Mix until evenly coated and heated through.
Tips for Success
How to Achieve a Perfectly Creamy Sauce
- Use room-temperature cream to prevent curdling.
- Stir continuously while adding cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta—aim for al dente.
- Using low-fat cream, which may yield a thinner sauce.
Variations
Vegetarian Version
Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based twist.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free pasta without compromising on flavor.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips
Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, penne or rigatoni works well as alternatives.
Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter can be used.
Opt for whole-grain pasta and reduce the amount of cream.
Related Recipes
Cellentani with Béchamel Sauce
Looking for another creamy sauce approach? Don’t miss Cellentani with Béchamel Sauce.
Cellentani with Spinach and Cheese
Want to add nutritious greens to your creamy pasta? Try Cellentani with Spinach and Cheese.
Spicy Sausage Cellentani
Need a bolder protein alternative? Check out Cellentani with Spicy Sausage and Rich Tomato Sauce.
Creamy Chicken Cellentani
Ingredients
- 1 pound cellentani pasta
- 1 pound chicken breasts diced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season and cook chicken in a skillet with olive oil until golden.
- Cook pasta until al dente.
- Sauté garlic, then mix in chicken broth, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Combine cooked pasta and chicken with the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- Pasta Choice: While cellentani is ideal for its spiral shape that holds the sauce beautifully, you can substitute it with fusilli or penne if needed.
- Cheese Variations: For a richer flavor, try mixing Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
- Vegetable Add-Ons: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine and heat just before serving for the freshest taste.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate.
- Reheating: Add a splash of cream or milk while reheating over low heat to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Card
Creamy Chicken Cellentani
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cellentani pasta
- 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Season and cook chicken in a skillet with olive oil until golden.
- Cook pasta until al dente.
- Sauté garlic, then mix in chicken broth, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Combine cooked pasta and chicken with the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.