Chicken Vodka Pasta is a creamy and comforting dish. It pairs juicy chicken with a rich tomato and vodka sauce, all tossed with tender pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Honestly, who can say no to this creamy goodness? I love how quick it is to whip up. Just cook, mix, and enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home—so satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for holding onto the sauce, but you can use other shapes like rigatoni or farfalle. Gluten-free pasta works too if needed.
Chicken: Use chicken breasts for a leaner option. Thighs add more flavor and moisture. Rotisserie chicken is a time saver in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream. Whole milk can work too, but it will be less creamy.
Vodka: For a non-alcoholic version, you can replace vodka with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice. It won’t be the same, but still tasty!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor and texture. If you’re in a jam, Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese can be used instead.
How Do You Make a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Creating a creamy sauce can be tricky, especially if you’re adding dairy too early. Here’s how to keep it smooth:
- Always lower the heat before adding heavy cream to prevent the sauce from boiling.
- Stir constantly while adding your cream to ensure even mixing.
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat, allowing the flavors to blend without breaking.
By following these steps, your Chicken Vodka Pasta will come out creamy and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Chicken Vodka Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Vodka Pasta will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare. This includes about 15 minutes for cooking the pasta and chicken, plus an additional 15 minutes for making the sauce and combining everything together. Perfect for those busy weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized pieces of chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Next, carefully pour in the vodka and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it reduces by half.
4. Combine the Tomatoes and Cream:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
5. Mix Everything Together:
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir it well to coat with the creamy vodka sauce. Allow it to heat through for 2-3 minutes. Finally, add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet and toss until the pasta is nicely coated in the sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Chicken Vodka Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese as desired. Enjoy your restaurant-style meal right at home!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like rigatoni, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Vodka?
If you prefer not to use vodka, you can replace it with chicken broth for a similar flavor profile. A splash of lemon juice can also work if you want a bit of acidity without the alcohol.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add in chickpeas or lentils for protein and richness.
