Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Introduction

There’s a certain kind of magic in a recipe that comes together in one pan, with minimal fuss, yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. For me, that magic is perfectly captured in this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s the dish I turn to on those evenings when the day has been long, the energy is low, but the desire for a truly satisfying, home-cooked meal is high. It’s the ultimate creamy weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender chicken and al dente pasta in a luxuriously simple sauce. This isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s a reliable solution for busy lives, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that manages to be both comforting and impressively delicious. If you’re looking for a simple pasta recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, you’ve just found your new kitchen staple.

Ingredients for Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta starts with a straightforward list of ingredients that work in harmony to create a rich and creamy dish.

• Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs will yield a more tender and flavorful result.
• Pasta: 12 oz of your favorite short pasta, like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Using a block of cheese you grate yourself is crucial for a smooth, non-grainy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a slightly lighter version.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth.
• Aromatics: 3 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 small yellow onion, finely diced.
• Seasonings: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp paprika, and salt and black pepper to taste.
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp for cooking the chicken and aromatics.
• Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish.

Smart Swaps: For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk and use a vegan Parmesan alternative.

Quick Timing for Your Creamy Chicken Pasta

This recipe is designed for speed without sacrificing flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

You’ll have a complete, family-friendly meal on the table in half an hour, making it significantly faster than many other comforting casseroles or baked pasta dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Follow these simple steps for a foolproof creamy chicken pasta every single time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid gold will help thin the sauce to the perfect consistency later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken pieces dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for just one more minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If you’re a fan of this cheesy, garlicky profile, you’ll also love our Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes. Return the cooked chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Nutritional Information for a Satisfying Meal

This creamy chicken dinner is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of macronutrients. A single serving (approximately 1.5 cups) contains roughly:

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 28g

The chicken offers a lean protein source, while the Parmesan cheese contributes calcium. For a different take on a creamy, protein-packed pasta, check out our 30 Minute Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe.

Equipment Needed for This Easy Chicken Dinner

You likely have everything you need already!

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or Dutch oven (a 12-inch skillet is ideal)
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or a wooden spoon for stirring

Why You’ll Love This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This recipe earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation for so many reasons.

• Incredibly Fast: From fridge to table in 30 minutes flat.
• Minimal Cleanup: Using one skillet for most of the cooking means less time washing up.
• Family-Approved: Its creamy, cheesy flavor is a universal hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile Base: It’s a perfect canvas for adding your favorite veggies like spinach or broccoli.
• Comfort in a Bowl: It delivers the rich, satisfying taste of a restaurant-style pasta dish from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

You can easily adapt this simple pasta recipe to fit various dietary needs without losing its creamy appeal.

• Lighter Cream Sauce: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, whole milk, or even plain Greek yogurt stirred in at the very end off the heat.
• Boost Veggies: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking. For a heartier veggie-packed meal, our Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is a fantastic option.
• Whole Grain or Legume-Based Pasta: Use whole wheat, chickpea, or lentil pasta to increase the fiber and protein content.
• Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and be mindful of added salt, letting the Parmesan cheese provide the primary salty flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Your Creamy Chicken Pasta

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but a few simple additions can make it even more special.

• With a Fresh Salad: A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully.
• Garlic Bread is a Must: For soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
• Extra Garnish: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes, extra black pepper, and a fresh handful of parsley or basil right before serving.
• Perfect Pairing: If you enjoy the combination of chicken and creamy sauces, our Chicken Florentine Recipe offers another delightful and elegant dinner idea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these simple pitfalls for the best possible outcome.

• Using Pre-Shredded Parmesan: These bags often contain anti-caking agents like potato starch or cellulose, which can prevent your sauce from becoming smooth and creamy. Always grate your own cheese from a block.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken over too high heat can make it tough. Cook it just until no longer pink in the center for the most tender result.
• Adding Cheese to Boiling Liquid: When you add the Parmesan to the sauce, make sure the heat is low. High heat can cause the cheese to seize and become oily or grainy.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: That starchy water is your secret weapon for a silky, restaurant-quality sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This dish makes for excellent leftovers, but the creamy sauce requires a little care.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce back up. The microwave can work, but it may cause the sauce to separate slightly.
• Freezing: Freezing is not highly recommended as the dairy-based sauce can separate and become grainy upon thawing. For a freezable meal with similar flavors, these Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a better option.

Conclusion

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta truly is the ultimate creamy weeknight dinner. It’s the kind of recipe that builds confidence in the kitchen and brings everyone to the table with a smile. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. I hope it becomes a cherished quick fix in your home, just as it has in mine.

I’d love to hear how your creamy chicken pasta turned out! Leave a comment below and share your experience. Don’t forget to tag @Stacksipsnack on Pinterest to show off your beautiful creation. Happy cooking

FAQs about Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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