Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Whip up a comforting bowl of Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Tender chicken is sautéed to golden perfection, tossed with al dente pasta, and coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This delightful dish pairs well with a side salad and offers a delicious way to enjoy Italian-inspired flavors without the fuss.
This dish is not just easy to make, but it also brings a warmth that is perfect for family gatherings.
A Comforting Classic
Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. The creamy Parmesan sauce envelops each strand of fettuccine, while the sautéed chicken adds a hearty protein element that will satisfy your hunger. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be prepared in just under 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe shines as a family favorite, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Its uncomplicated ingredients and straightforward steps make it an ideal option for novice cooks as well. With its impressive taste and presentation, you can serve it at casual gatherings or family dinners, impressing your guests without breaking a sweat.
Meal Prep and Storage
One of the fantastic aspects of Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its adaptability for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe and store servings in airtight containers for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just make sure to keep the sauce separate if you plan to store leftovers, as the creaminess may thicken once refrigerated, requiring a splash of milk or broth to restore its velvety texture.
To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or water to loosen the sauce. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish even on your busiest days, preserving the delightful experience of a freshly made meal.
Personalize Your Pasta
Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta serves as a blank canvas, allowing you to get creative with ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a boost of nutrition, consider adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes into the mix. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also infuse it with additional vitamins and flavors.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese. While Parmesan is a classic choice, mixing in some mozzarella or adding a sprinkle of feta can give your dish an interesting twist. Additionally, if you crave a little spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile, making every bite exciting.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Once you have all the ingredients, you can start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, boil salted water, add the fettuccine, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic in the last minute of cooking.
Make the Sauce
Reduce heat to low, add heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for another minute to heat everything through.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Your Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is ready to be enjoyed!
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a light side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully. Alternatively, roasted vegetables can also add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, enhancing your meal's nutritional value.
For those who enjoy bread, garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls can make a fantastic addition, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on your plate. Additionally, a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, pairs nicely with the dish, elevating your dining experience.
Nutritional Information
Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also provides a good source of protein due to the chicken and Parmesan cheese. Each serving offers an ample supply of calcium and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet when complemented with vegetables. However, if you're watching your calorie intake, consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber, and reduce the amount of cream or cheese in the sauce.
For variations that cater to specific dietary needs, gluten-free pasta alternatives are readily available, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting dish. You can also substitute chicken with turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter option.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you like will work well with this sauce.
→ How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use whole grain pasta and reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with a lighter option.
Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Whip up a comforting bowl of Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Tender chicken is sautéed to golden perfection, tossed with al dente pasta, and coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This delightful dish pairs well with a side salad and offers a delicious way to enjoy Italian-inspired flavors without the fuss.
Created by: Georgia Lane
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, boil salted water, add the fettuccine, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic in the last minute of cooking.
Reduce heat to low, add heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for another minute to heat everything through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 25g