Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta Recipe
Looking for a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a hint of fresh dill? Look no further than this Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, the fresh dill adds a unique flavor that elevates this pasta to a whole new level!
Why It’s My Go-To
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce clings to the linguine, providing a satisfying and flavorful bite every time. The addition of dill gives it a fresh twist that is both aromatic and savory. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner for one, this dish hits the spot every time.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make this Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 oz. dried linguine pasta
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 5 to 6 chicken tenderloins or 2 breast halves of 1 large breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (I used 2%)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Prep & Cook Tools
- Large pot: For boiling the linguine pasta.
- Skillet: To cook the chicken and make the creamy sauce.
- Whisk: For combining the flour and milk smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
- Colander: For draining the pasta after cooking.
Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta Recipe — Do This Next
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the dried linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken tenderloins or breast halves with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly until it forms a paste. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often until it thickens.
Step 4: Thicken with Cornstarch
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the creamy sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked linguine, sliced chicken, chopped dill, and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the creamy dill chicken pasta warm, garnished with extra dill or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
What to Use Instead
If you’re missing some ingredients or want to make substitutions, consider the following:
- Whole wheat or gluten-free linguine: A healthier or alternative pasta choice.
- Chicken thighs: For a richer flavor compared to tenderloins or breasts.
- Greek yogurt: Can be used in place of half the milk for added creaminess and tang.
- Dried dill: If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill can work in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon).
What I Learned Testing
- Cooking the chicken in the same skillet as the sauce saves time and enhances flavor.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry; it’s key to achieving that perfect creamy consistency.
- Fresh dill can be quite potent, so adjust the amount to your taste preference.
- This dish can easily be doubled to serve larger groups without any fuss.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta Recipe can be made ahead and frozen for later. Here are some tips:
- Cool the pasta completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
- Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Troubleshooting Q&A
What if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much, simply add a little more milk, stirring well until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the sauce for a flavorful kick.
What if I don’t have fresh dill?
Dried dill can be used as a substitute, but use it sparingly as it is more concentrated in flavor.
Healthy-ish Favorites
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Quinoa Bowl
- Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta
- Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto
- Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce
Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed this Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta Recipe, be sure to check out my other recipes for more delicious inspirations. You can explore a variety of comforting meals, quick weeknight dinners, and delightful desserts that will surely satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to share your creations and feedback! Cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Happy cooking!
Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Linguine - Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the dried linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken - While the pasta cooks, season the chicken tenderloins or breast halves with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce - In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly until it forms a paste. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often until it thickens.
- Step 4: Thicken with Cornstarch - In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the creamy sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened to your desired consistency.
- Step 5: Combine Everything - Add the cooked linguine, sliced chicken, chopped dill, and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Serve the creamy dill chicken pasta warm, garnished with extra dill or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Cool the pasta completely before freezing to ensure quality.
- This dish can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
- Adjust the amount of dill to your taste preference.
