Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish featuring tender chicken tossed with pasta in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. With a silky texture, savory flavor, and easy one-pan prep, this meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend indulgence. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is everything you love about creamy pasta dishes: rich, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting. It’s quick to make with simple pantry staples and customizable with your favorite add-ins like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms. The tender, golden-seared chicken adds protein and flavor, making this a complete and filling meal all on its own. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy evenings.

ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Garlic (minced)
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes per side). Remove and let rest.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
8. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spinach & Tomato: Stir in fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for a different cheese profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the sauce to separate or the chicken to dry out.
Not recommended for freezing, as cream sauces can become grainy after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, just slice or shred it and add it during the final step to warm through.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or linguine all work well. Use what you have on hand.

Can I make this without cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, whole milk with a bit of flour, or a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream.

Why is my sauce too thick?

Add a bit of reserved pasta water or more chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, peas, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.

Is freshly grated Parmesan necessary?

Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and confirm your chicken broth is gluten-free.

How do I make this dish more budget-friendly?

Use less cream and more broth, or substitute chicken thighs for a more economical option.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, try Asiago, Romano, or a mild white cheddar for a flavor twist.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley, basil, or thyme all pair well with the creamy Parmesan sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich, satisfying dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a velvety Parmesan sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe is a guaranteed success and a delicious addition to your dinner rotation.

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