Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s as rich and delightful as Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta. I still remember the first time I made this dish for a cozy evening at home. It was one of those days when you just want to wrap yourself in a blanket and indulge in something creamy and delicious. The aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with tender chicken and fresh dill filled my kitchen, making it feel like a scene from a charming movie. After trying this dish, it quickly became a staple in my household, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

What You’ll Need for Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta

The ingredients in Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender chicken to the creamy sauce that envelops the pasta. The addition of fresh dill brings a refreshing note, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth. Together, they create a meal you’ll want to savor again and again.

• 6 oz. dried linguine pasta: This pasta serves as the perfect base for the creamy sauce, providing a hearty and satisfying texture.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 5 to 6 chicken tenderloins or 2 breast halves of 1 large breast: Tender and juicy, the chicken is the star of this recipe, providing protein and richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, it brings out the flavors in all the ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: A little kick of pepper adds complexity to the dish.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: This helps to create a beautiful roux for the creamy sauce.
• 2 cups milk: I used 2% milk, which helps to create a luscious, creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: This thickens the sauce, giving it the right consistency to cling to the pasta.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Fresh dill is key to adding a vibrant flavor and aroma.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a rich and salty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Step by Step Guide for Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and your belly with warmth. Follow these steps to create a bowl of creamy goodness that everyone will love. Let’s get started!

1. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta and keep it warm.
2. While the pasta cooks, take the chicken tenderloins and cut them into bite-sized cubes, about 2 inches each. This will allow for even cooking and a great bite size.
3. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, and flour to create a coating mixture. This will add flavor and help achieve a nice brown color on your chicken.
4. Take the chicken cubes and coat them thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well-covered. This step is crucial for creating a delicious crust.
5. Next, in a large saucepan, heat some oil over medium heat. Once hot, go ahead and add the coated chicken in batches. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown.
6. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and golden brown on all sides. Once done, transfer it to a plate and set aside.
7. If the pan looks a bit dry, add a little more oil. Then, add the minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
8. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and cornstarch until well combined. Gradually pour this mixture into the saucepan while whisking constantly. This will help prevent lumps and allow the sauce to thicken smoothly.
9. Let the sauce cook for a few minutes, stirring often, until it thickens. You may need to add more milk gradually if it gets too thick. Aim for a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
10. Once the sauce is thickened, return the chicken to the saucepan, stirring to coat it with the creamy mixture. Then add the dill and Parmesan, mixing everything together. Allow it to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
11. Finally, add the drained linguine pasta to the sauce, carefully tossing to coat all the pasta in the creamy goodness. Let it stand for about 5 minutes before serving, which allows the flavors to develop further.
12. If you have any leftovers, refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy again!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to get a little creative with your Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta, here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate some steamed broccoli or spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Switch the Pasta: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or some lemon zest for brightness.
• Make It Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of milk.
• Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: If you need to freeze, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container. Reheat before serving.
• Pairing: This dish goes well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Side Dish Ideas for Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta

When it comes to serving Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta, the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed veggies, such as green beans or asparagus, add a fresh and colorful element to the meal.
• Caesar Salad: The flavors of a Caesar salad complement the pasta wonderfully, adding a crunchy texture and a tangy dressing.
• Roasted Potatoes: Serve alongside some crispy roasted potatoes for a hearty plate.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine can enhance the flavors of the dish beautifully.
• Seasonal Fruits: For a light dessert, seasonal fruits provide a refreshing finale to your meal.
• Occasions: This pasta dish is perfect for casual family dinners, special celebrations, or even a cozy date night.

FAQ

Conclusion

Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta stands out for its comforting and satisfying flavors, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone craving more. I encourage you to try making it tonight; you won’t regret it!

Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken with a luscious cream sauce and fresh herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 585

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 oz. linguine pasta
• 1 clove garlic
• 5 to 6 pieces chicken tenderloins
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Cook pasta according to the directions on the packaging. Drain, keep warm.
2. Cut the chicken tenderloins into 2" cubes.
3. Mix salt, pepper and flour in a small bowl.
4. Coat the chicken with flour mixture.
5. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat.
6. Cook chicken in batches, to cook through and brown on all sides.
7. Transfer to a plate. Set aside.
8. Add more oil to the pan if needed.
9. Add garlic to the saucepan and sautee for 30 seconds.
10. Mix milk and cornstarch together in a mixing bowl.
11. Gradually, add milk mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly. Let the sauce thicken up before adding more milk. Repeat until you used all of the milk.
12. Return chicken to the sauce. Add dill and Parmesan and stir it all in to coat.
13. Let cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
14. Add pasta and toss to coat.
15. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
16. Refrigerate any leftovers for up to 2 days.

Notes

• Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: If you need to freeze, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container. Reheat before serving.
• Pairing: This dish goes well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.