If you’re looking for a cozy bowl of comfort that brings together the best flavors of summer and all the creamy indulgence of your favorite pasta recipes, this Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is about to be your weeknight hero. Tender chicken, golden corn, and a dreamy parmesan cream sauce wrap every bite of pasta in pure happiness. The best part? It all comes together in one pan with simple ingredients and minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy nights or a comforting family meal that feels a little bit special. Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is the dish you’ll want to put on repeat year-round!

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s where this dish shines: every ingredient is there for a reason, working together to build layers of flavor, color, and irresistible texture. You likely have most of these on hand already, and each one plays a crucial supporting role in making this pasta creamy, savory, and hearty.

12 ounces penne or pasta of choice: Penne is perfect for catching all the creamy sauce, but any pasta you love will work beautifully.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken to perfection.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Lean, tender, and soaks up flavor, making every bite satisfying.
1 small onion (chopped): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the base of the sauce.
2 cloves garlic (minced): For that pop of savory aroma that makes any pasta dish irresistible.
1 ½ cups frozen or canned corn (drained): Sweet, juicy corn adds color and a touch of summer to the dish any time of year.
1 cup heavy cream: The magic ingredient that creates the luscious, silky-smooth sauce.
½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the richness of the cream.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a salty, nutty bite that melds perfectly with the creamy sauce.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Delivers earthy, herbal notes that complement the sweetness of the corn.
½ teaspoon salt: Pulls all the flavors together and enhances every ingredient.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): That final burst of freshness and color right before you dig in.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta—penne works beautifully here—and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain well and set aside. This ensures the pasta will hold its shape and texture once you toss it into that luscious sauce later on.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken, seasoning them immediately with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. This step locks in moisture while adding delicious flavor from those golden bits left behind.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until aromatic. The onion and garlic create a savory base that makes this Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta truly mouthwatering.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Toss in the corn (whether you’re using sweet summer corn or handy frozen/canned) to the skillet, followed by the heavy cream, chicken broth, thyme, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting the mixture bubble away for about 3 to 4 minutes. The sauce will start to thicken, becoming extraordinarily creamy and rich with a subtle hint of thyme.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure every bite gets coated in that silky sauce. Continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until everything is heated through and the flavors are perfectly combined. It’s that simple—dinner is ready!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Garnishes

Finish your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of green. You could also add an extra dusting of Parmesan or a crack of black pepper to make each serving even more inviting. Sometimes, a little bit of lemon zest adds a refreshing twist too!

Side Dishes

This pasta is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlicky roasted vegetables. For a cozy meal, a slice of warm, crusty bread (perfect for mopping up any extra sauce) makes a lovely companion alongside your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more playful touch, serve the Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta in shallow bowls and top with charred corn or roasted cherry tomatoes if you have them. It’s also stunning presented family-style on a large platter, so everyone can dig in and help themselves. For a fresh garden party feel, try scooping the pasta into hollowed-out bell peppers or mini squash boats!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to meld and become even more delicious as they sit, making your leftovers extra appealing for lunch or another quick meal.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to two months. Before reheating, let it thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the creamy texture as much as possible.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the pasta before warming gently over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Give it a good stir to revive the creamy sauce, and top with fresh parsley if you have some on hand for that just-cooked touch.

FAQs

Can I use leftover or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Simply skip the chicken cooking step and add your shredded or diced cooked chicken with the pasta. This is a fantastic shortcut that makes Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta even quicker on a busy night.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for the cream?

Yes, you can use canned coconut milk or a plant-based heavy cream alternative. While the flavor will be a bit different, the sauce will still turn out creamy and satisfying. You might also want to use a vegan parmesan-style cheese to finish.

What other vegetables can I add?

Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, zucchini, or even roasted red peppers are all delicious added to Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. Stir them in with the corn or right before serving to add more texture, color, and nutrients.

Will this recipe work with gluten-free pasta?

Definitely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free varieties tend to cook and break down faster. The creamy sauce helps hold everything together nicely.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

If your sauce thickens more than you’d like, just stir in a splash of hot pasta water, milk, or extra chicken broth until you reach your preferred consistency. This trick keeps your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta perfectly silky even after reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is the kind of feel-good dinner that’s destined to become a regular part of your recipe rotation. Simple, delicious, and full of cozy flavors—it’s just waiting for you to dig in. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy, dreamy, corn-flecked pasta happiness tonight!

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 14 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and satisfying Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. This easy one-pan pasta is loaded with flavors and creamy goodness, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces penne or pasta of choice

Chicken:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

Vegetables:

1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 ½ cups frozen or canned corn (drained)

Sauce:

1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil, add chicken, season, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, cook onions until soft, then add garlic and corn.
Make the Sauce: Stir in cream, broth, Parmesan, thyme, and simmer until thickened.
Combine Everything: Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until coated and heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Top with parsley before serving.