Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish marries tender chicken with al dente pasta in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it's a delicious comfort food that everyone will love.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-25T03:48:08.663Z

This dish brings together the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese and garlic, creating a delightful experience in every bite. It's a family favorite that never disappoints!

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful harmony of flavors that elevates a simple dish to something extraordinary. The creaminess of the heavy cream sauce melds beautifully with the sharpness of the Parmesan, creating a rich and satisfying coating for the al dente penne pasta. Each bite is a combination of tender chicken and vibrant herbs that enhances the overall dish without overshadowing its core components.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding in different vegetables such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even broccoli. These additions not only enhance the nutritional profile of the meal but also introduce new textures and flavors, making it a fantastic option for those who like to experiment in the kitchen.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

In our busy lives, finding the time to prepare a home-cooked meal can be a challenge. This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is designed specifically for those hectic weeknights when you need something quick yet delicious. With a preparation time of around 30 minutes, you can have a warm, hearty dinner on the table without any complicated steps or lengthy cooking processes.

Additionally, this dish requires minimal clean-up, making it even more appealing. With just one pot for the pasta and a skillet for the chicken and sauce, you'll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal with family and friends. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel accomplished without overwhelming your evening schedule.

Tips for Success

Ingredients

Pasta and Chicken

8 ounces penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley

Ensure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice into strips.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in chopped parsley before serving.

Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a simple side salad for a fresh and crisp complement to the creamy dish. A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta and enhance your dining experience. Additionally, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving adds a touch of elegance.

For those looking to elevate the meal further, consider pairing it with a glass of Chardonnay or a light pinot grigio. Both wines complement the creamy sauce and chicken, enhancing the flavor profile of the entire dish.

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from becoming dry. This ensures that you can enjoy the deliciousness of your meal even after the initial serving.

If you're planning to freeze the pasta, consider doing so before adding the sauce. Cooked pasta tends to become mushy when frozen with sauces. By storing the chicken and sauce separately, you can enjoy a freshly reheated meal whenever the craving strikes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.