Traeger Creamy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a smoky twist. Made with tender, Traeger-smoked chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is packed with flavor. The subtle smokiness from the Traeger grill adds depth, making this pasta an irresistible meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoky and Creamy Combination – The smoked chicken pairs beautifully with the rich, velvety sauce.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Versatile and Customizable – Easily switch up the pasta, sauce, or add extra ingredients.
Great for Leftovers – Reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Traeger Grilled Flavor – Adds a unique, wood-fired taste you won’t get from traditional stovetop cooking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Garlic (minced)
Butter
Olive oil
Chicken broth
Italian seasoning
Smoked paprika
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Smoke the Chicken

Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F.
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Place the chicken directly on the grill grates and smoke for 60-90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice or shred.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is smoking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the smoked chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Let everything simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes (including smoking time)
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter.
Cheesy Upgrade – Mix in mozzarella or gouda for an extra cheesy texture.
Vegetable Boost – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Different Protein – Swap chicken for smoked shrimp or sausage for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different grill if I don’t have a Traeger?

Yes! Any pellet grill or smoker can achieve a similar smoky flavor.

What type of wood pellets work best?

Hickory, applewood, or cherry pellets pair well with chicken.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but for the best smoky flavor, fresh Traeger-smoked chicken is recommended.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I add bacon?

Absolutely! Smoked bacon adds even more depth of flavor.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

Add a little extra chicken broth or pasta water while reheating.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Slowly add the cheese and stir constantly to keep it smooth.

Can I smoke the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! Store smoked chicken in the fridge and reheat before using.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad pairs well.

Conclusion

Traeger Creamy Chicken Pasta is a smoky, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving comfort food, this pasta dish will impress with its rich taste and wood-fired aroma. Try it today for a new favorite meal!