Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken - Easy 20-Minute Dinner

Try a tasty pasta dish that’s easy to make. It has tender chicken, fresh herbs, and a light sauce. This Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken recipe is great for busy weeknights. It’s ready in just 20 minutes.

It uses quick-cooking angel hair pasta, garlic, white wine, and a bit of lemon. This mix makes a comforting, yet quick, meal for any weeknight.

Key Takeaways

Quick and easy 20-minute pasta dinner
Tender chicken, fresh herbs, and a light sauce
Angel hair pasta for a delicate, tangled texture
Garlic, white wine, and lemon for flavor
Perfect for busy weeknights or quick meals

Introduction to Quick and Easy Pasta Dinners

Pasta dishes are a favorite for fast, tasty meals that everyone loves. Recipes like Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken are great for busy nights or when you want a cozy dinner. This dish combines rich flavors like butter and olive oil with fresh parsley.

For a delicious Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken, use fresh, quality ingredients. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for those with no time. The sauce simmers for 5 minutes, blending flavors and thickening beautifully.

This site also has other quick pasta dinners, like Three Cheese Pizza and Easy Chicken Manicotti. They cater to different tastes and diets. Whether you need fast meals, easy recipes, or quick dinners, you’ll find something here.

“Pasta dishes are the ultimate time-saving solution for busy home cooks, offering a satisfying and versatile meal option that can be customized to suit any taste or dietary need.”

Essential Ingredients for Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken

Creating a tasty Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken dish starts with choosing the right ingredients. You’ll need fresh produce and pantry staples. Each one is important for the flavors and textures of this quick meal.

Fresh vs. Pantry Ingredients

Dried angel hair pasta and olive oil are the base. But fresh ingredients like garlic and parsley add a special touch. The garlic and parsley mix with the chicken and pasta to make a dish full of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a richer sauce, use unsalted butter instead of olive oil.
Replace dry white wine with chicken broth and a bit of vinegar for a similar taste.
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins for juiciness and flavor.

Wine and Broth Options

The type of wine or broth you pick can change the dish’s taste. Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay add a nice complexity. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth with a bit of vinegar works well.

By picking and mixing these key ingredients, you can make a delicious Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken. It will be a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make a tasty pasta dish like Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken, you need some key kitchen tools and equipment. Make sure you have these items to make cooking fun and efficient:

A large pot for boiling the pasta
A skillet or sauté pan for cooking the chicken and creating the sauce
A sharp chef’s knife for chopping ingredients
A cutting board for food preparation
Measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure ingredients
A colander for draining the cooked pasta
A meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature

Having the right pasta cooking tools and kitchen essentials makes cooking this quick and easy pasta dish simple. With these tools, you’ll quickly make a delicious Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken meal.

Tool	Purpose
Large Pot	Boiling pasta
Skillet or Sauté Pan	Cooking chicken and making sauce
Chef’s Knife	Chopping ingredients
Cutting Board	Food preparation
Measuring Cups and Spoons	Accurately measuring ingredients
Colander	Draining cooked pasta
Meat Thermometer	Ensuring safe internal temperature for chicken

Preparing the Perfect Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken

Cooking the perfect angel hair pasta with chicken needs focus and a few important steps. Let’s explore the key steps to make your dish a hit.

Pasta Cooking Techniques

The secret to al dente pasta is in the cooking time. Boil a big pot of salted water, then add the angel hair pasta gently. Cook it until it’s tender but still firm, usually 5-7 minutes. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente to keep the perfect texture.

Chicken Preparation Tips

To cook the chicken right, butterfly the breasts for even cooking. Season the chicken with olive oil, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mix of flavors will enhance the chicken and pasta.

Sauce Making Guidelines

The sauce is where the magic is. Start by sautéing minced garlic in butter, being careful not to burn it. Then, add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Let it reduce by half. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

“The secret to the perfect angel hair pasta with chicken lies in the harmonious balance of cooking techniques, seasoning, and sauce-making.”

By following these steps, you’ll make a top-notch angel hair pasta dish at home. Serve it with a side salad and warm bread for a full meal.

Creating the Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce

Making the ultimate garlic butter pasta sauce is easy and adds a lot to your Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken. The secret to a great flavorful pasta sauce is finding the right mix of ingredients and how you use them. Follow these steps to make a garlic butter sauce that will make your taste buds happy.

Begin by melting 1/2 cup of salted butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add 3 tablespoons of minced garlic, about 6 large cloves, and cook for about 2 minutes. Make sure the garlic doesn’t burn, as that can make it taste bitter. You want to warm the garlic gently so its flavor mixes well with the butter.

When the garlic smells good and the butter is just simmering, take the skillet off the heat. This garlic butter sauce should be warm enough to release the garlic’s flavors without bitterness. The result should be a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the chicken and pasta well.

To finish the dish, toss the garlic butter sauce with the cooked angel hair pasta and chicken. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, saving the other 1/4 cup for garnish. The mix of buttery, garlicky sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta makes a flavorful pasta dish that’s sure to please.

This easy sauce recipe is quick to make and uses common ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights. With just 10 simple ingredients and 20 minutes of prep, you can have a top-notch pasta dish at home.

Tips for Cooking Angel Hair Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta is all about finding the right balance. You want it to be firm yet tender. Follow these tips to make your pasta dishes stand out:

Al Dente Perfection

To get the perfect al dente texture, start with a large pot. Fill it with salted, boiling water. Cook the pasta for 4-5 minutes, stirring now and then to prevent sticking.

Don’t overcook it. Overcooking can make the pasta mushy and unappealing.

Preventing Pasta from Sticking

To stop pasta from clumping, use a big pot with lots of salted water. The boiling water and enough volume keep the strands apart. Also, stir the pasta often to cook evenly and prevent sticking.

By following these pasta cooking tips, al dente pasta, and non-stick pasta techniques, you’ll cook angel hair pasta perfectly every time.

Seasoning and Flavoring Secrets

Unlock the true potential of your angel hair pasta with chicken by mastering the art of seasoning and flavoring. The key to creating a dish that tantalizes the taste buds lies in the perfect blend of dried and fresh herbs, coupled with strategic use of aromatic ingredients.

Start by infusing your chicken with a robust seasoning mix. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper create a flavorful base. Complementing this, the addition of freshly minced garlic to the sauce brings a layered garlic essence that elevates the overall taste.

Dried herbs like oregano and thyme lend depth and complexity, while fresh basil and parsley add a vibrant, herbal touch.
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can infuse the dish with a subtle heat, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of a kick.
Brighten up the flavors with a zesty lemon zest, which adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the creamy sauce.

The final touch? A generous helping of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which melts seamlessly into the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile. By layering these pasta seasoning tips, flavor enhancers, and herbal additions, you’ll create a truly exceptional angel hair pasta with chicken dish that will have your taste buds singing.

How to Cook Chicken for Pasta Dishes

Cooking chicken right is key to great pasta dishes. For your Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken, we’ll cover chicken cooking methods, safe chicken temperature, and chicken slicing techniques.

Temperature and Timing

To get juicy, flavorful chicken, cook it to 165°F (74°C). This keeps it moist and tender. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3 minutes on each side, until it’s golden.

Slicing Techniques

Let the chicken rest before slicing it thinly. Slice against the grain for tender pieces. Aim for strips about 1/4-inch thick for the best pasta dish texture.

Chicken Cooking Methods	Safe Chicken Temperature	Chicken Slicing Tips
Sauté in a skillet over medium-high heat	Internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)	Slice against the grain into 1/4-inch thick strips
Cook for about 3 minutes per side	Ensure chicken is cooked through	Let chicken rest briefly before slicing

Follow these tips for chicken cooking methods, safe chicken temperature, and chicken slicing techniques. You’ll make perfect chicken for your Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken dish.

Combining Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Making a tasty angel hair pasta with chicken dish is all about mixing everything well. First, cook the pasta until it’s just right and the chicken is tender. Then, it’s time to mix it all together for the final step.

Begin by tossing the cooked angel hair pasta with half of the garlic butter sauce. This lets the pasta soak up the sauce’s flavors. Next, add the chicken and the rest of the sauce to the mix.

Mix the pasta, chicken, and sauce together. Add some pasta cooking water if needed to get the right consistency.
Then, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top and toss again. This makes sure everything is well combined.

Using the right pasta tossing techniques and mixing the pasta, chicken, and sauce perfectly makes a delicious dish. This last step of combining pasta ingredients and pasta finishing tips makes the meal even better.

Ingredient	Quantity
Angel Hair Pasta	10 oz
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast	2 lbs
Garlic Butter Sauce	1/2 cup
Parmesan Cheese	1/4 cup
Pasta Cooking Water	As needed

“The perfect pasta dish is all about harmonizing the flavors and textures of the pasta, protein, and sauce.”

Pasta Water: The Secret Ingredient

Preparing a delicious pasta dish? The secret to a silky sauce is in the pasta water. This often-overlooked ingredient is full of flavor and starch. It’s waiting to make your dishes better.

How Much to Reserve

Before you drain your pasta, save about 1 cup of the water. This water is full of starches from the pasta. It’s perfect for thickening and blending your sauce.

When to Use It

Start by adding 1/3 cup of the pasta water to your sauce. The starch helps the sauce stick to the noodles. If it’s too thick, add more water a bit at a time.

This pasta water is great for more than just thickening sauce. Use it to cook veggies, deglaze pans, or as a base for creamy sauces. It opens up endless possibilities in your kitchen.

“The starch-rich pasta water is the secret to achieving a luscious, cling-worthy sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly.”

Next time you make pasta, don’t throw away the pasta water. It’s the secret ingredient that can make your dish amazing. With a few tricks, you’ll master sauce thickening and create unforgettable pasta dishes.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

Elevate your pasta plating ideas by serving the angel hair pasta with chicken in warm, inviting bowls or plates. Add a delightful touch with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a light dusting of black pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, offer lemon wedges on the side, allowing your guests to squeeze a refreshing citrus accent over their meal.

To create a complete and satisfying dining experience, pair this pasta dish with complementary side dishes. A crisp, colorful salad or a selection of roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments. A warm slice of garlic bread can serve as the perfect accompaniment to soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Pasta Plating Ideas	Garnishing Pasta	Complementary Side Dishes
Serve in warm bowls or plates	Fresh parsley	Salad
Arrange neatly on the plate	Grated Parmesan	Roasted vegetables
Drizzle with sauce	Black pepper	Garlic bread
Garnish with fresh herbs	Lemon wedges	–

By paying attention to the pasta plating ideas, garnishing the pasta, and offering complementary side dishes, you can transform a simple pasta dish into a visually appealing and delightfully flavorful meal. This will impress your family and friends.

“The way you plate and present your food can make all the difference in the dining experience.”

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Enjoying a tasty pasta dish doesn’t have to end when it’s over. You can enjoy your angel hair pasta with chicken for days with the right storage and reheating. Let’s look at the best ways to keep and reheat your pasta for maximum enjoyment.

Leftover Pasta Storage

To keep your leftover pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s best to keep the pasta and sauce separate to prevent the noodles from getting soggy.

Reheating Pasta Dishes

There are several ways to reheat your leftover pasta:

Stovetop: Heat a bit of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the pasta and sauce, stirring occasionally until it’s just hot.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly.
Microwave: Put the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a few drops of water or sauce. Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through.

For the best reheating results, use a slightly thicker pasta like spaghetti or rotini. They hold their texture better than delicate angel hair.

Reheating Method	Time	Tips
Stovetop	2-5 minutes	Sauté in a pan with a bit of olive oil
Oven	15-20 minutes	Cover with foil, add a dollop of sauce or water to prevent drying
Microwave	1-1.5 minutes	Add a few drops of water or sauce, stir between intervals

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your angel hair pasta with chicken for days. This makes the most of your pasta meal prep efforts.

Variations and Customizations

Pasta dishes are full of possibilities for customizing and trying new flavors. You can add more veggies or use different proteins. This makes your angel hair pasta with chicken dish even better.

Vegetable Additions

Adding fresh veggies can make your pasta colorful and nutritious. Here are some great options:

Cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
Spinach or kale, lightly sautéed
Broccoli florets, steamed or roasted
Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Zucchini or yellow squash, spiralized or diced

Protein Alternatives

Want to change up the classic chicken? Try these protein swaps:

Shrimp: Sauté or grill the shrimp and toss it with the pasta.
Pancetta: Crisp up some diced pancetta and sprinkle it over the dish.
Italian Sausage: Cook crumbled sausage and mix it into the pasta.

Play with herbs and spices like basil, Italian seasoning, or roasted garlic. For creaminess, add heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce.

Ingredient	Amount	Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat
Angel Hair Pasta	1 lb	400	81g	14g	2g
Chicken Breast	2 boneless, skinless	284	0g	53g	6g
Heavy Cream	1 1/2 cups	821	6g	7g	86g
Parmesan Cheese	1 cup, grated	428	4g	38g	28g
Cherry Tomatoes	1 cup, halved	27	6g	1g	0g

With these ideas, you can make a unique and tasty angel hair pasta with chicken dish. It will be just what you like and fits your diet.

Nutritional Information and Benefits

This Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken dish is not just tasty. It also gives you a good mix of nutrients. One serving has about 450 calories, 24.7g fat, 31.1g carbs, 1.4g fiber, and 24.7g protein.

The dish is a perfect mix of pasta nutritional value, chicken, and garlic butter sauce. The pasta gives you carbs for energy. The chicken adds a lot of protein for muscle health.

Garlic and herbs add flavor and antioxidants. These help keep you healthy. This dish is a true balanced meal with all the right nutrients.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	450	22%
Total Fat	24.7g	38%
Carbohydrates	31.1g	10%
Fiber	1.4g	5%
Protein	24.7g	49%

This Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken dish is more than just food. It’s a healthy meal for a balanced diet. With pasta nutritional value, balanced meal components, and protein-rich ingredients, it’s a great choice for dinner.

Conclusion

Angel hair pasta with chicken is a quick, delicious meal that families love. It’s full of flavor and texture, making it perfect for busy nights. You can easily change it up to fit everyone’s taste, making it great for any meal.

This dish is perfect for a quick dinner solution, a versatile pasta recipe, or a family-friendly meal. It has lean protein, tasty sauce, and just-right pasta. It’s a meal that everyone will enjoy.

Next time you need a simple, tasty dinner, try this angel hair pasta with chicken. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and tastes amazing. It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in angel hair pasta with chicken?

The main ingredients are angel hair pasta, chicken breasts, and butter. You’ll also need olive oil, garlic, white wine, lemon, and parsley.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

It only takes 20 minutes to make. This makes it perfect for quick weeknight meals.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed?

You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta and a skillet for cooking chicken and sauce. A cutting board, sharp knife, and measuring tools are also essential. A meat thermometer is helpful too.

How do you cook the pasta and chicken properly?

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until it’s al dente. Butterfly the chicken breasts for even cooking. Season the chicken with olive oil, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

How do you make the garlic butter sauce?

Sauté minced garlic in butter without burning. Then, add white wine and lemon juice. Reduce the sauce by half.

What’s the secret to a silky pasta sauce?

Use some starchy pasta cooking water in the sauce. This makes it smooth and clingy.

How can you customize this dish?

Add veggies like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or broccoli. Try different proteins like shrimp, pancetta, or Italian sausage. Experiment with herbs and spices to change the flavor.