If you are looking for budget-friendly and delicious meal ideas, then you have come to the right place. In this article, you will discover a collection of affordable chicken pasta recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank. From creamy Alfredo to spicy Cajun, there is a recipe for everyone. So, put on your apron and let’s get cooking!
Key Takeaways
- Cheap chicken pasta recipes don’t have to compromise on taste
- These recipes are perfect for anyone on a budget
- From creamy Alfredo to fresh lemon herb, there is a recipe for every taste preference
- Chicken and pasta are versatile ingredients that can be paired with a variety of flavors and seasonings
- These recipes are easy to make, so you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal in no time
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
If you’re looking for a delicious and indulgent meal that won’t break the bank, look no further than this creamy chicken Alfredo pasta recipe. This dish combines tender chicken breast with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce, creating a comforting and affordable meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
To make this creamy chicken Alfredo pasta recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 pound of fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To begin, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions and set it aside. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked fettuccine pasta and chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are coated in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
This creamy chicken Alfredo pasta recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich, indulgent flavors. Plus, since it’s made with budget-friendly ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Looking for a budget-friendly way to spice up your dinner? Try our delicious spicy Cajun chicken pasta recipe! This satisfying dish is not only easy to make but also packed full of flavor. The combination of tender chicken, tangy tomatoes, and spicy seasonings will have your taste buds dancing with joy. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy this mouthwatering meal!
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
|
|
Enjoy the bold and spicy flavors of our Cajun chicken pasta recipe without hurting your wallet. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing your friends with your cooking skills. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of garlic and Parmesan with this easy-to-make chicken pasta recipe. The creamy sauce, made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of butter, perfectly coats the tender chicken and pasta.
To make this delicious garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, follow these simple steps:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 lb. chicken breast, cut into cubes | 1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, and set aside. |
| 1 lb. pasta | 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant. |
| 4 cloves garlic, minced | 3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked. |
| 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated | 4. Reduce heat and add butter, stirring until melted. |
| 2 tbsp. butter | 5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and simmer until sauce thickens. |
| 1 cup heavy cream | 6. Add cooked pasta and toss with the sauce until fully coated. |
| 2 tbsp. olive oil | 7. Serve hot and enjoy! |
| salt and pepper, to taste |
This garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is perfect for a quick and easy dinner, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing lemon herb chicken pasta recipe. The zesty lemon and fragrant herbs make this dish a light and flavorful option that’s perfect for any time of year. Not to mention, it’s incredibly budget-friendly!
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 8 oz. pasta | 1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. |
| 2 chicken breasts | 2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook in a skillet until browned and cooked through. |
| 2 tbsp olive oil | 3. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. |
| 3 cloves garlic, minced | 4. Add cooked pasta, chicken, lemon juice, and herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley) to the skillet with garlic. Toss until ingredients are well combined. |
| 1/4 cup lemon juice | 5. Serve hot and enjoy! |
| Fresh herbs (optional) |
Pro tip: Add some fresh veggies like asparagus or peas to make this dish even more filling and nutritious.
Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
Looking for a classic and easy chicken pasta recipe that is budget-friendly? Look no further than this tomato basil chicken pasta! The vibrant and fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil complement the tender chicken and pasta beautifully, creating a simple yet delicious meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.
To make this dish, start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat some olive oil in a pan and sauté some garlic and diced tomatoes. Add in some chicken breast and cook until it’s no longer pink.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pan with the chicken and tomatoes. Toss everything together and add a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and cracked black pepper.
This tomato basil chicken pasta is not only easy to make, but it’s also a great way to use up any extra tomatoes and basil you may have on hand. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Add in some spinach or mushrooms for an extra boost of nutrients, or swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Overall, this tomato basil chicken pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying and affordable meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch of this delicious pasta tonight!
Pesto Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a way to add a burst of flavor to your chicken pasta dish, try this mouthwatering pesto chicken pasta recipe. The combination of tender chicken and aromatic basil pesto creates a budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
To make this dish, start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add some olive oil. Add your chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides and fully cooked.
Once your chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Add some garlic to the skillet and cook until it’s fragrant. Stir in your basil pesto and some heavy cream, and let the mixture simmer until it’s heated through.
Add your cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, and toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy pesto sauce. Serve hot and garnish with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped basil.
This pesto chicken pasta recipe is not only easy to make, but also incredibly delicious. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick and affordable meal that’s full of flavor.
Chicken Carbonara Pasta
If you’re looking for a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that won’t break the bank, look no further than this chicken carbonara pasta recipe. Made with crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a silky carbonara sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something rich and savory.
To start, cook your pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. While the pasta is cooking, fry some chopped bacon in a large skillet until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
Add chopped garlic to the skillet and cook it for a minute or two until it’s fragrant. Then, add some heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Add your cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, along with some cooked and diced chicken. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce. Serve the pasta hot, topped with the crispy bacon and some additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
If you’re looking for a nutritious twist on your traditional Alfredo pasta, then this recipe for chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta is perfect for you. The addition of vibrant, green broccoli brings some essential vitamins and minerals to this dish while still offering a delicious and creamy taste.
To prepare this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 1 pound |
| Chicken breasts | 2, boneless and skinless |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, grated |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the instructions on the package. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken and broccoli. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute. Add the chicken and sauté until it’s fully cooked and lightly browned on the outside.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and sauté until they are tender. Add the cooked penne pasta, chicken, and heavy cream to the skillet with the broccoli. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
Once the mixture is simmering, add the Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it’s melted and fully combined. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta hot, garnished with more Parmesan cheese if desired.
This recipe for chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta is not only delicious but also a great way to get some extra nutrients into your meals. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner, this dish is sure to become a new go-to favorite.
Chicken Primavera Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, look no further than this chicken primavera pasta recipe. This dish is packed with colorful veggies, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, making it a tasty and healthy dinner option.
What sets this recipe apart is the combination of fresh spring vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, which add a crunchy texture and a burst of color to the dish. The chicken is seared to perfection, adding a savory and satisfying flavor to the dish.
For the creamy and indulgent sauce, we use a combination of heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and garlic, which perfectly coats the pasta and chicken. The result is a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to impress.
To make this chicken primavera pasta recipe, simply cook the pasta according to the package instructions and sauté the veggies and chicken. Combine everything with the sauce and pasta and toss until everything is evenly coated.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy and budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. So, why not give this chicken primavera pasta recipe a try today?
Conclusion
In conclusion, these cheap chicken pasta recipes are perfect for anyone looking for delicious and budget-friendly meal options. With a variety of flavors, from creamy Alfredo to spicy Cajun and fresh lemon herb, there is a recipe for everyone to enjoy. Plus, adding nutritious ingredients like broccoli and colorful vegetables is a great way to elevate the nutritional value of these dishes.
Don’t let a tight budget hold you back from enjoying tasty and satisfying meals at home. These recipes prove that you can create restaurant-worthy dishes without breaking the bank. So, grab some chicken, pasta, and your favorite ingredients and get ready to impress your taste buds!
FAQ
Q: Can I use any type of pasta for these recipes?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta or whatever you have on hand. The recipes are versatile, and any pasta will work well.
Q: Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
A: Of course! While these recipes specifically focus on chicken, you can easily substitute it with other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Q: Are these recipes suitable for picky eaters?
A: Yes! The flavors in these recipes are well-balanced and not too overpowering, making them suitable for picky eaters. Feel free to adjust the seasonings and spices according to your preference.
Q: Can I make these recipes in advance?
A: Absolutely! These recipes can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Just reheat and enjoy whenever you’re ready.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers from these recipes. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers or freezer bags and label them with the date for easy reference.
Q: Can I adjust the quantities of ingredients?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the quantities of ingredients based on your preferences and the number of servings you need. These recipes are versatile and can be easily adapted.
Q: Are these recipes family-friendly?
A: Definitely! These recipes are designed to be enjoyed by the whole family. They are simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly, making them perfect for family dinners.
Q: Can I add more vegetables to these recipes?
A: Absolutely! These recipes serve as a great base, and you can always add more vegetables to make them even more nutritious. Feel free to get creative and customize the recipes to your liking.
Q: Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
A: Yes! You can easily make these recipes gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. There are many gluten-free options available in the market.
Q: Do these recipes require any special equipment?
A: No, these recipes are designed to be simple and can be made with basic kitchen equipment such as a pot, skillet, and utensils. You don’t need any special equipment to enjoy these delicious dishes.
