If you are on the hunt for a comforting and visually stunning pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken and Cherry Tomato Fettuccine Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, juicy chicken with sweet, bursting cherry tomatoes all wrapped in a velvety, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of fettuccine. This recipe is a showcase of rich flavors and simple ingredients working in harmony to create a homemade dish that feels both indulgent and fresh. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to go back to ordinary pasta dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a starring role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color in this dish. From the juicy chicken breast to the bright cherry tomatoes and the creamy, cheesy sauce, these essentials come together to deliver a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Chicken breasts: Diced for quick cooking and a tender bite that soaks up all the sauce flavor.
- Olive oil: The perfect medium to brown your chicken and add a subtle fruity richness.
- Salt and pepper: Basic but crucial seasonings that enhance every other ingredient.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle garlic warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings herbs like oregano and basil to life.
- Heavy cream: The backbone of creaminess, creating that luscious sauce texture.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory note to balance the richness of the cream.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated fresh for sharp, nutty flavor and to help thicken the sauce.
- Fresh garlic: Minced to release a fragrant aroma enhancing the entire dish.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved to provide juicy pops of sweetness and a vibrant color contrast.
- Fettuccine: The pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped to sprinkle on top, adding freshness and a bright green finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Cherry Tomato Fettuccine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling salted water in a large pot, then cook your fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. This step is important because overcooked pasta won’t hold up well once tossed in the sauce. Once done, drain it and set it aside so it’s ready to absorb that creamy goodness later.
Step 2: Season and Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the diced chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken pieces. Let them cook without moving too much until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through—about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds flavor and texture, so don’t rush! Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant—about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce to create a silky, slightly thickened base that will coat the pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cherry Tomatoes and Chicken to the Sauce
Next, fold the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken pieces into the sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes. The tomatoes soften just enough to release their juices without losing their lovely texture, while the chicken soaks up that creamy, cheesy sauce, making each bite a perfect mix of savory and sweet.
Step 5: Toss Pasta in the Sauce
Finally, add your cooked fettuccine directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything thoroughly so each strand of pasta is wrapped in the rich sauce, distributing the chicken and tomatoes evenly throughout. This step ensures every forkful has that luxurious, creamy bite that makes this recipe so irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a burst of color and a refreshing note. Serve it right away for the best flavor and creaminess. Enjoy the happiness this comforting meal brings!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Cherry Tomato Fettuccine Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple yet stunning garnish that brightens the plate and lifts the flavors. For an extra touch, a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan or even a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the dish’s creaminess and balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is a must-have for soaking up any leftover sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add color and nutrition without competing with the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the fettuccine twirled elegantly on each plate with a piece of chicken on top and a few whole cherry tomatoes, garnished with parsley sprigs. Use shallow bowls instead of plates to keep the sauce contained. Offering a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on the side gives guests the choice to add a little kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken and Cherry Tomato Fettuccine Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken overnight, but gently reheating with a splash of cream or broth will bring back its lovely saucy texture.
Freezing
While this recipe can be frozen, the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. If you want to freeze it, place portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little cream or broth if the sauce feels dry. Stir continuously until heated through to preserve the creamy texture without drying the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with linguine, penne, or even spaghetti depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan substitute. Keep in mind the flavor profile will shift but it can still be delicious!
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken, and avoid overcooking it. Cooking the diced pieces in a single layer on medium-high heat until just golden helps lock in moisture and flavor.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it, but it’s best to add the cooked pasta and tomatoes fresh to prevent the pasta from getting soggy and the tomatoes from overcooking.
What can I add if I want the dish spicier?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce or providing chili flakes at the table gives the dish a nice heat without overpowering the creaminess. You might also try a dash of cayenne pepper for a deeper spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Cherry Tomato Fettuccine Recipe truly feels like a labor of love made simple. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors that will impress anyone you serve it to. I encourage you to make this recipe your own and share it with friends or family for a meal that warms both heart and soul. Enjoy every decadent bite!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Cherry Tomato Fettuccine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Creamy Marry Me Pasta is a rich and flavorful skillet pasta dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce with garlic and juicy cherry tomatoes. Perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta is tossed in the creamy sauce, creating a comforting and elegant meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season diced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring occasionally, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Chicken: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken pieces into the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors and warm through.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together to fully coat the pasta in the sauce evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a fresh aroma and visual appeal. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, comforting dish!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best for melting and flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushy texture as it will cook slightly more in the sauce.
