Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the creamy richness of this Parmesan Chicken Pasta that combines tender chicken and al dente pasta in a luscious garlic-parmesan sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this meal is sure to impress everyone at your table with its delightful flavors and easy preparation.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-11-16T11:14:43.541Z

This Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to the table. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the rich flavors that come together harmoniously.

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something quick yet satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy garlic-parmesan sauce means you're getting protein, carbs, and a delightful flavor profile all in one dish. Plus, the ingredients are simple and often found in your pantry, making it easy to prepare without any last-minute shopping trips.

This recipe also allows you to customize it according to your taste. You can swap out the pasta for whole wheat options or add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, for a nutrient boost. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for families looking to cater to different dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Comfort Food at Its Finest

What’s better than a plate of creamy pasta to comfort you after a long day? This Parmesan Chicken Pasta hits all the right notes, offering a rich and indulgent experience with each bite. The creamy sauce, infused with the aromatic garlic and nutty Parmesan, coats the tender chicken and pasta perfectly, making it a dish that everyone at the table will love.

It's not just the flavors that make this recipe a hit; it's the ease of preparation. From cooking the pasta to preparing the chicken, each step is straightforward, keeping the cooking process stress-free. This means you can spend more time enjoying your meal with loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Make it Your Own

One of the beautiful aspects of cooking is the ability to infuse your unique twist into any dish. For this Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for an added depth of flavor or incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a vibrant touch of color to your plate.

If you're looking to make it lighter, consider using half-and-half in place of heavy cream or substituting the chicken for shrimp or tofu. These variations can provide a fresh take on a classic dish, allowing you to serve up something new while still maintaining the essence of the beloved Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients prepared, you're ready to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated with the sauce. Cook for a couple of minutes until heated through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

Nutritional Benefits

Parmesan Chicken Pasta not only pleases the palate but also offers several nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle health and recovery. Combining it with whole-grain pasta can add complex carbohydrates that fuel your body, making this dish ideal for active individuals or those looking to maintain their energy levels throughout the day.

The addition of heavy cream, while decadent, provides necessary fats that can help in the absorption of vitamins. Calcium-rich Parmesan cheese supports bone health, making this meal a well-rounded option that delivers on both taste and nutrition. Making informed ingredient choices allows you to enjoy this dish while staying health-conscious.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a light side salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette will help cut through the richness of the pasta, adding a refreshing contrast. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes over the completed dish can add an exciting kick without overwhelming the flavor balance.

For beverage pairings, a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, harmonizes beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, lemonade or a sparkling water with a hint of lemon can provide a refreshing complement to your meal, making it feel even more special.

Storage and Reheating

After cooking, if you have any leftovers, storing Parmesan Chicken Pasta is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored properly in the fridge, it can last up to three days. Just remember to separate the sauce if possible, as it can absorb into the pasta over time, altering the texture.

Reheating is simple, too. The best method is to gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to rehydrate the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture. With these tips, you can enjoy leftover Parmesan Chicken Pasta that tastes almost as good as fresh!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well in this recipe.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.