Easy Dinner Recipes for Family: Creamy Chicken & Corn Pasta in 20 Minutes

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Creamy Chicken & Corn Pasta is a delightful, quick dish to whip up that the whole family will enjoy, especially during hectic weeknights. With its rich, creamy sauce and the sweetness of corn, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite. Imagine a dish that blends tender chicken with succulent sweet corn, enveloped in a creamy sauce that clings to each piece of pasta. The best part? It can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy parents or anyone looking to make a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Is Easy Dinner Recipes for Family: Creamy Chicken & Corn Pasta in 20 Minutes?

This recipe is an embodiment of convenience without compromising taste. Utilizing simple ingredients, the dish highlights chicken, corn, and pasta, creating a satisfying and hearty meal. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned home cook, this dish removes the stress of dinner prep, all while ensuring each bite delivers comforting flavors.

Why You’ll Love This

The beauty of this Creamy Chicken & Corn Pasta is its versatility and speed. It’s great for families looking to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in front of the stove. The creamy sauce enriches the palate, while the corn adds a slight sweetness that balances the flavors perfectly. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning preparation and cleanup is a breeze, a perfect solution for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 oz. pasta (any type) – The base of the dish, providing the necessary carbohydrates. You can choose penne, fusilli, or any other favorite pasta.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – This adds protein to the meal. Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
• 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen) – Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream – The creamy element that envelops the pasta and chicken, creating a luxurious sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Provides depth of flavor and helps in creating the sauce.
• 1 small onion, chopped – Adds a savory base flavor to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds color and freshness to your dish.

How to Make

1. Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt for flavor, then cook the pasta according to package instructions. Aim for al dente texture, which means the pasta will remain slightly firm when bitten.
2. While your pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then sauté the chopped onion until it turns translucent, about 4–5 minutes. The aroma will begin developing already!
3. Once the onions are soft, add in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
4. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm through while you prepare the sauce. This step will help incorporate the flavors of garlic and onion into the chicken.
5. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3–4 minutes until it thickens. The creamy texture should coat the back of a spoon.
6. Stir in the sweet corn and season with salt and pepper. Allow everything to combine and heat through for another 2–3 minutes.
7. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly into the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated.
8. Plate your pasta, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Option – Instead of chicken, use mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty, meatless alternative. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for heightening nutritional value while maintaining the dish’s original essence.

Pasta Choices – Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. The sauce can adapt well to various types of pasta while keeping the integrity of the dish.

Flavor Enhancements – Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or even a splash of lemon juice for an acidic balance that brings brightness to the creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While preparing the Creamy Chicken & Corn Pasta, it’s essential to avoid overcooking the pasta. Cook it just enough so it remains firm, as it will continue to cook slightly after being combined with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its appealing texture.

Another common error is neglecting to taste the dish until the end. It’s vital to season as you go to ensure every layer of flavor develops appropriately.

Lastly, using low-quality creamy products can yield a lackluster dish. For the best results, opt for heavy cream rather than lighter options which can separate or curdle during cooking.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

Leftover Creamy Chicken & Corn Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so slowly on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of additional chicken broth or heavy cream to return some moisture to the dish, ensuring it doesn’t become dry.

If you wish to freeze the dish, it is recommended to exclude the cream until you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain the texture and taste. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then heat slowly on the stove, stirring in the cream for a fresh finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken works wonderfully in this dish. It saves time and adds extra depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the sauce for even distribution.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If heavy cream isn’t accessible, try using half-and-half or a mix of whole milk and butter. While they won’t create as rich a sauce, they can still yield a creamy texture. Just be cautious with heating, as lower-fat milk can curdle if cooked at too high a temperature.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond or cashew cream. For the cheese flavor, add nutritional yeast for extra richness while keeping it plant-based.

How can I add more vegetables?
Enhancing the dish’s nutritional profile is easy! Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli towards the end of cooking. They will wilt slightly yet maintain a vibrant color and texture.

What sides should I serve with this pasta?
A fresh side salad dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar complements the Creamy Chicken & Corn Pasta well. Alternatively, garlic bread or steamed green vegetables can balance the richness of the dish.

Conclusion: Creamy Chicken & Corn Pasta is not only delicious but also a quick solution for family meals. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it brings joy to the dinner table. Embrace this charming dish as a staple, and enjoy the delightful flavors that promise to please everyone in your family.