If you have ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This dish effortlessly combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and luscious cream in a way that turns a simple pasta dinner into something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, the comforting sauce paired with the perfect pasta shape is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish shine. From the savory cooked chicken to the sweetness of the corn, every element contributes to that irresistible creamy finish.
- Cooked chicken: Using shredded or diced chicken provides tender protein and soaks up the sauce deliciously.
- Pasta: Pick your favorite shape, whether penne, fusilli, or farfalle, to hold onto the creamy sauce.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned—this adds a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Onion: Diced and sautéed for a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Minced to add an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
- Heavy cream: The star of the sauce, creating that rich and velvety texture.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory complexity and thins out the cream for a perfect consistency.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated and stirred in for a salty, nutty finish that binds the sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil or butter: Used for sautéing, adds richness and helps soften the onion and garlic.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together just right.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Parsley or thyme adds a fresh, lively touch to garnish and taste.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure not to overcook, as the pasta will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the sauce. Once done, drain and set aside, ready to soak in all that creamy goodness.
Step 2: Prepare the base with onion
In a large skillet, heat your olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. This step builds a rich foundation of flavor and sweetness that will infuse the entire dish.
Step 3: Add garlic and corn
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about one minute—just enough to release its aroma without burning. Then toss in the corn. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure it’s fully thawed; canned corn works perfectly too. This combination adds a wonderful pop of texture and a hint of sweetness that complements the creamy sauce delightfully.
Step 4: Create the creamy sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth next, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This step transforms the pan into a luscious sauce that will coat the pasta and chicken, enveloping every bite in velvety goodness.
Step 5: Combine chicken and pasta
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce to warm through. Then fold in the drained pasta, tossing gently to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in the creamy mixture. This is the heart of the Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe — a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and seasoning
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This adds that irresistible salty, nutty layer that makes the dish truly shine. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, adjusting to your preference.
Step 7: Serve and garnish
Once everything is combined and perfectly seasoned, remove from heat. If you like, toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for that burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the creamy, comforting magic you just created.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or a sprinkle of thyme elevate the look and flavor of this dish. You might also consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a dash of lemon zest to brighten up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe goes wonderfully with a crisp green salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a fantastic accompaniment to soak up every last bit of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and herbs. You can also try serving it in individual ramekins baked with a light golden crust of Parmesan on top for an elegant finish that impresses at any dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers just as delicious, if not more so.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta, although the texture may slightly change due to the cream. Place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent the cream from separating and ensure even warming throughout.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even canned chicken can be used. Just make sure the chicken is cooked before adding it to the sauce for the best results.
Is it okay to substitute the heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream, which will lend a slightly different but tasty flavor.
What pasta shapes work best?
Any shape that holds sauce well is ideal. Penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even macaroni are excellent choices. Just pick your personal favorite or whatever you have on hand.
Can I add vegetables besides corn?
Yes! Peas, bell peppers, or spinach are great additions that complement the creamy texture and chicken beautifully. Add them during the sauce simmering step for the best results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce or a dash of hot sauce before serving. Fresh jalapeño slices stirred in with the garlic can also add a nice heat.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration every time you make it. It’s simple to prepare, packed with comforting flavors, and flexible enough to suit your mood and pantry. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy a delicious, creamy moment that your taste buds will thank you for.
Print
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken and corn pasta dish that’s quick to prepare in just 30 minutes. Tender cooked chicken, sweet corn, and tender pasta are coated in a rich sauce made from heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, flavored with sautéed onions and garlic. Perfect for a hearty family meal with optional fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Protein
- Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) – 2 cups
Pasta
- Pasta (any shape) – 12 ounces (about 3/4 box)
Vegetables
- Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) – 1 cup
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Liquids & Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
Oils & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or thyme) – 1 tablespoon chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness.
- Add garlic and corn: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the corn (if using frozen, ensure it is thawed) and cook briefly to combine flavors.
- Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring well to heat through. Then add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together to evenly coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce, creating a smooth texture. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, adjusting as needed.
- Serve: Optionally garnish the dish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for an extra layer of flavor and color. Serve the creamy chicken and corn pasta immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or shells.
- If using frozen corn, thaw it completely before adding to the skillet to avoid extra water in the sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
- Fresh herbs add brightness but are optional depending on availability.
