Parmesan Chicken Pasta has become my absolute go-to for those busy weeknights when I need something comforting and delicious without all the fuss. I still remember the first time I made it – the aroma of garlic and Parmesan filling my kitchen was pure bliss! The tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a luscious, creamy sauce, just makes me happy. This easy recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser, and I can guarantee it will become a favorite in your home too. It’s the ultimate creamy chicken pasta experience that’s ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Incredible flavor explosion: Tender chicken and pasta in a rich, garlicky sauce.
- Super speedy prep: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters adore this comforting and delicious meal.
- Budget-friendly: Uses common pantry staples for an affordable dinner.
- Healthy-ish option: Packed with protein and you can easily add veggies.
- The ultimate weeknight dinner: It’s a satisfying and easy pasta recipe.
- Fantastic garlic chicken pasta: The garlic flavor is perfectly balanced.
- This garlic chicken pasta is a guaranteed hit for everyone!
Ingredients for Delicious Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making this easy pasta recipe. The quality of each component really shines through in the final dish, creating that perfect creamy chicken pasta experience.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – this ensures even cooking and easy eating
- 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne) – choose your favorite shape for soaking up the sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the chicken and garlic
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – the heart of our flavor, so mince it finely!
- 1 cup heavy cream – this is what makes our sauce wonderfully rich and velvety
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – use freshly grated for the best melt and flavor
- 1/4 cup chicken broth – adds depth to the sauce and helps achieve the right consistency
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is best!
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a pop of color and freshness
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This recipe is designed to be a fantastic weeknight dinner, making it incredibly easy to get a delicious meal on the table in under an hour. Let’s break down the simple steps.
- Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, get a large pot of salted water boiling for your pasta.
- Step 2: Once the water is boiling, add 8 ounces pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 1 pound chicken pieces and cook until they are beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the 4 cloves minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden – be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic tastes bitter.
- Step 5: Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then immediately reduce the heat to low.
- Step 6: Stir in the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring gently until the cheese has melted completely into the cream and chicken broth, creating a smooth, luscious sauce. This is the magic moment for our creamy chicken pasta!
- Step 7: Season the sauce with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste. You can always add more if needed, especially after combining with the pasta.
- Step 8: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken.
- Step 9: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the rich, creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This is a great trick for any weeknight dinner.
- Step 10: Serve your delicious Parmesan Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, chopped for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy this easy pasta recipe!
Cooking the Pasta
Get a large pot of generously salted water boiling. Add your favorite pasta, like fettuccine or penne, and cook until it’s perfectly al dente. Remember to reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining – it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency!
Preparing the Chicken and Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces until they’re cooked through, then set them aside. Lower the heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer before reducing the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and velvety.
Combining and Finishing
Return the browned chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will help achieve the perfect consistency. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Pro Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken Pasta
I’ve made this recipe countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Trust me, a few simple adjustments make all the difference for a truly restaurant-worthy dish.
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
- Don’t skip reserving the pasta water! It’s the secret ingredient to achieving that perfect, silky sauce consistency and helps it cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Browning the chicken properly adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get from simply poaching it in the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. The saltiness of the Parmesan can vary, so a final check ensures perfect balance for your garlic chicken pasta.
What’s the secret to perfect creamy chicken pasta?
The secret really lies in creating a good “panade” with your pasta water and heavy cream, and then emulsifying the Parmesan cheese into it slowly. This technique ensures a smooth, luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. For more culinary techniques, explore therapeutic cooking.
Can I make Parmesan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce components separately ahead of time. Cook the chicken and make the sauce, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve, then combine everything.
How do I avoid common mistakes with garlic chicken pasta?
The biggest pitfall is burning the garlic – it becomes bitter! Cook it gently and only until fragrant. Also, avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente as it will finish cooking in the sauce. Lastly, don’t add the Parmesan too early or overcook the sauce after adding it, as it can become grainy. Learn more about different types of vanilla for baking inspiration.
Best Ways to Serve Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This delicious Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions to make your dinner feel extra special. It’s truly an easy pasta recipe that can be dressed up or down!
- Serve with a fresh green salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, creamy pasta. Think mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple lemon dressing.
- Add some crusty bread: A warm baguette or ciabatta is ideal for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. It’s a simple but satisfying pairing that makes the meal feel even more complete.
- Include steamed or roasted vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a healthy crunch and a burst of color. Roasting them with a little olive oil and salt brings out their natural sweetness, complementing the savory pasta beautifully.
Nutrition Facts for Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Let’s talk about what’s in this delicious dish per serving. It’s always good to know what you’re eating, and this creamy chicken pasta is surprisingly well-balanced for such a comforting meal.
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more healthy options, check out our pink salt weight loss recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Properly storing and reheating this delicious Parmesan Chicken Pasta ensures you can enjoy every last bite. This is a prime example of easy pasta recipe storage that makes life simpler!
- Cooling: Let the pasta cool down to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before storing. Don’t leave it sitting out for more than two hours to maintain food safety.
- Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled pasta into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, pack portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This creamy chicken pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. In the microwave, cover the pasta loosely and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. On the stovetop, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed. This helps revive the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Parmesan Chicken Pasta
What makes this Parmesan Chicken Pasta so creamy?
The magic behind this creamy chicken pasta comes from a combination of heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, emulsified together with a touch of chicken broth. This creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta and chicken. It’s a simple technique that delivers maximum flavor and that satisfying, luxurious texture.
Can I add vegetables to this Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. I love adding steamed broccoli florets or sautéed spinach right at the end when I toss everything together. You could also add mushrooms, peas, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color. It’s a great way to make your creamy chicken pasta even more nutritious! For more ideas, explore our easy macaroni tuna casserole.
How do I make this Parmesan Chicken Pasta spicier?
If you like a little heat, you can easily spice up this dish! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic when you’re sautéing it. You could also stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce into the cream sauce for a kick. Experiment to find your perfect level of spice for this delicious creamy chicken pasta.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can definitely use other pasta shapes! While fettuccine or penne work wonderfully, feel free to use spaghetti, linguine, rotini, or even farfalle. The key is to cook your chosen pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce. Any pasta shape will hold this delicious creamy chicken pasta sauce beautifully. Discover more recipes on our site.
Variations of Parmesan Chicken Pasta You Can Try
This Parmesan Chicken Pasta is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to make this dish your own and explore different flavor profiles for your garlic chicken pasta.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic, or stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the cream sauce for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and load up on sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. This makes for a hearty and satisfying meatless meal.
- Lemon Herb Twist: Stir in the zest and juice of half a lemon, plus some fresh chopped basil or dill, at the very end for a brighter, fresher flavor profile.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream, and a reduced amount of Parmesan cheese to cut down on fat and calories.
Parmesan Chicken Pasta: 30 Min Creamy Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe featuring tender chicken and pasta coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce. Perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, simmer for a few extra minutes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water).
- You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Adjust garlic and Parmesan cheese to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
