Name: Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup canned sweet corn (drained); 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms; 3/4 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 lb rigatoni pasta; Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish); Grated Parmesan (optional)

Are you ready to treat your family to a delicious, mouthwatering dish that combines rich flavors with a comforting texture? Look no further than this Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta, an easy 30-minute meal that’s truly ideal for busy weeknights. With succulent pieces of chicken breast, sweet corn, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious tomato cream sauce, this recipe is designed to satisfy your cravings while keeping your time in the kitchen to a minimum. Perfectly paired with rigatoni, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this creamy chicken corn pasta stand out? First, it’s incredibly simple to make. You can whip it up with just a few ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it a great choice for those times when you want a hearty meal without the hassle. Plus, the combination of pasta and creamy sauce provides an irresistible comfort food experience. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying it as a cozy solo meal, this pasta dish strikes the right chord with its balance of flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta

Quick Preparation: This dish can be on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
Comfort Food Delight: The rich, creamy sauce and hearty pasta provide comfort with every bite.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken, sweet corn, and mushrooms creates an explosion of flavor that is simply irresistible.
Kid-Friendly: Most children love pasta, and the addition of sweet corn makes it even more appealing to young taste buds.
Customizable: Feel free to modify the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or veggies to suit your taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure this creamy chicken corn pasta comes out perfectly, it’s important to start with a well-prepared kitchen. Gather your ingredients and tools to streamline your cooking process. You will need a large pot to cook the rigatoni and a spacious skillet for the chicken and sauce. Having a wooden spatula or a sturdy spoon is helpful for stirring and combining ingredients. Before you begin cooking, make sure to chop your mushrooms and measure out all ingredients. This mis en place approach will help you stay organized and focused while preparing the dish.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup canned sweet corn (drained)
1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
3/4 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 lb rigatoni pasta
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente tenderness. Whisk it often to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it well, but reserve a little pasta water. Set the drained pasta aside while you prepare the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and season it with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. After that, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This step not only creates flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped mushrooms and drained sweet corn. Cook these ingredients together for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the mushrooms soften and release their juices. This adds depth to your sauce while infusing the pasta dish with delightful textures and flavors. It’s a good time to taste and adjust your seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients

Once the vegetables are softened, pour in the chicken broth and stir well to combine. Then, add the tomato paste and stir until it dissolves completely. Allow this mixture to simmer for around 2 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld beautifully. Following that, lower the heat and add the heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and dried oregano. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen with a wonderfully savory scent.

Step 5: Combine Everything

After the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the cooked rigatoni. Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss everything together until the pasta is completely coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. This final step is where all the flavors come together to create a luscious, comforting meal!

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, diced turkey, or even tofu if you’re looking for vegetarian options.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition and vibrant colors.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like thyme, basil, or even curry powder for an exciting twist.

Cooking Notes

For a lower-calorie version, consider using half-and-half in place of heavy cream.
Always taste your sauce before serving, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your creamy chicken corn pasta with a side salad for a burst of freshness.
Serve it with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips

Chop your vegetables ahead of time to make the cooking process even quicker.
For even more flavor, consider adding a dash of lemon juice before serving for brightness.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 600 calories per serving
Protein: About 25g per serving
Sodium: Around 450mg per serving

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Although it is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and just reheat it when ready to add pasta.

What can I substitute for rigatoni?

If you don’t have rigatoni, consider using penne, farfalle, or fusilli as suitable pasta alternatives.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers, but be aware that the cream may change texture upon reheating.

How can I make it spicier?

Simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add fresh jalapeños to enhance the heat.

Conclusion

In just 30 minutes, you can create a comforting and delicious meal with this Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta. It’s a great way to unite family and friends around the table, providing a satisfying and hearty experience that everyone will enjoy. Remember, the best part about this dish is its versatility—experiment with different ingredients to make it your own! Be sure to share your variations and let us know how your loved ones reacted. Your feedback is appreciated, and we look forward to hearing about your cooking adventures. Enjoy every creamy bite!