Creamy Pasta with Peas, Chicken, and Goat Cheese: A Beginner-Friendly Recipe

There’s something comforting about a warm bowl of creamy pasta, and this Pasta with Peas, Chicken, and Goat Cheese is the perfect dish for both beginner cooks and seasoned food lovers. I still remember the first time I attempted a creamy pasta dish—excited but slightly nervous, unsure if I’d end up with a clumpy sauce or overcooked pasta. But after a few tries, I learned that with a little patience and the right techniques, a restaurant-quality dish is absolutely possible at home.

Print

This recipe is perfect for beginners because it’s simple, quick, and forgiving. With just a handful of ingredients and a few basic cooking techniques, you can whip up a delicious, creamy pasta that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, it’s nutrient-rich, with tender chicken providing protein, peas adding a natural sweetness, and goat cheese lending a tangy, creamy richness.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even impressing guests, this dish is an excellent go-to meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe!

Ingredients and Preparation

This recipe serves six people and takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
• 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or substitute with half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1½ cups frozen peas, thawed
• ¼ cup chopped fresh chives
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken)

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Pasta Options: Swap penne for whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
• Protein Choices: Instead of chicken, try cooked ground beef or turkey for a different flavor.
• Milk Alternatives: Dairy-free? Use unsweetened almond or oat milk, though it may alter the creaminess slightly.
• Goat Cheese Swap: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try feta for a tangier taste or ricotta for a milder, creamier texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Beginner Tip: To prevent pasta from sticking together while you prepare the sauce, toss it lightly with a teaspoon of olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

How to Know When Chicken is Cooked: The pieces should be firm to the touch and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Once melted and slightly bubbling, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for another minute to form a smooth paste.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, making sure to incorporate it smoothly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and continue stirring until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
6. Add half of the crumbled goat cheese and 1 teaspoon of sea salt, whisking until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.

Beginner Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add an extra splash of milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer until it reaches the right consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Return the cooked pasta to the pot.
2. Pour the creamy goat cheese sauce over the pasta and stir to coat evenly.
3. Add the chicken and peas, mixing well to distribute all the ingredients.
4. Let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Divide the pasta into bowls or plates.
2. Top with the remaining goat cheese, freshly chopped chives, and a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Sauce too thick? Add a splash of warm milk and stir until smooth.
• Sauce too thin? Simmer for a few more minutes to let it thicken naturally.
• Chicken browning too fast? Lower the heat slightly and stir frequently to prevent burning.
• Pasta drying out? Keep a little pasta water on the side and mix it in if needed.

Kitchen Efficiency Tips:

• Prep ingredients beforehand: Chop the chicken, mince the garlic, and measure everything before starting. This makes the process smoother.
• Use one pot when possible: If you have a large enough skillet, cook everything in one pan to minimize cleanup.
• Multi-task: Cook the pasta while preparing the sauce to save time.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is already a well-balanced meal, but here are a few ways to make it even more satisfying:

Side Dishes:

• Garlic Bread: A crusty slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: Toss together arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try oven-roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients.

Storage and Reheating:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as creamy sauces can separate when thawed.

Final Thoughts & Encouragement

If you’re new to cooking, this Creamy Pasta with Peas, Chicken, and Goat Cheese is a fantastic dish to start with. It’s simple, quick, and full of delicious flavors that will boost your confidence in the kitchen. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, you’ll find it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and impressive.

Have fun cooking, and don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different cheeses, proteins, or seasonings. If you try this dish, I’d love to hear how it turned out—leave a comment below and share your experience!