Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It combines the rich garlic butter flavor of traditional chicken Kiev with comforting pasta.
It’s easier and less fussy than stuffing and breading whole chicken breasts.
The creamy sauce coats every bite for maximum flavor.
It’s ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
It feels elegant but uses simple, everyday ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Season the diced chicken with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and dill. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Top with toasted breadcrumbs for a nod to the crispy coating of traditional chicken Kiev.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
FAQs
What is Chicken Kiev traditionally?
Traditional Chicken Kiev is a breaded chicken breast stuffed with garlic herb butter, then fried or baked until crispy.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work well in this recipe.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat moderate and avoid boiling the cream. Gentle simmering helps maintain a smooth texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
What herbs work best in this recipe?
Parsley and dill give it a classic Chicken Kiev flavor, but chives or thyme also work nicely.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. You may need to simmer longer to thicken it.
Is lemon necessary?
Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish and balance the richness, but you can reduce or omit it if preferred.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should be golden on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth and Parmesan are gluten-free.
What can I serve with Chicken Kiev Pasta?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair perfectly to balance the richness of the pasta.
Conclusion
Chicken Kiev Pasta delivers all the comforting, garlicky richness of the classic dish in a simpler, pasta-based form. Creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, it’s a meal that feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
PrintChicken Kiev Pasta
Chicken Burrito Rice is a vibrant Tex-Mex inspired bowl loaded with seasoned tender chicken, fluffy rice, black beans, corn, and fresh toppings. This easy one-bowl meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, delivering bold flavor and satisfying comfort in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to package instructions until tender and fluffy. Set aside and keep warm.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. Continue cooking until fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Stir in black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until heated through.
- To assemble, spoon rice into serving bowls and top with the seasoned chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot mixture and allow it to melt slightly.
- Top with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.
Notes
- Store toppings like avocado and cilantro separately for best freshness.
- Swap white rice for brown rice for added fiber.
- Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Adjust spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Freeze without fresh toppings for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg