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Paprika Chicken Pasta Recipe

Paprika Chicken Pasta Recipe
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4.7 from 27 reviews

This Paprika Chicken Pasta recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce with a hint of smoked paprika. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) penne or your preferred pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Season and cook the chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in cream and Parmesan, cooking until sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Combine pasta and chicken: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir in spinach if using and let wilt.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan, if desired.

Notes

  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of smoked paprika at the end for brightness.
  • Swap chicken for shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for variation.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://easy-tapas-recipes.com/paprika-chicken-pasta-recipe/