Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and quick meal perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it's sure to satisfy the whole family.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:12:36.473Z

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a family favorite that comes together in just 30 minutes. This recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich parmesan sauce that's both comforting and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy parmesan sauce that coats every bite
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
Kid-friendly and perfect for the whole family

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're juggling work, family, and other commitments, finding time to prepare a delicious dinner can be challenging. This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes to the rescue with its quick preparation time and minimal cleanup. In just 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready to serve, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones.

The dish is not only quick to make but also features ingredients that are commonly found in your pantry. This means that you can whip it up on a whim without needing to make an extra trip to the grocery store. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted based on your family’s preferences.

Customizable and Nutritious

One of the great aspects of this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its adaptability. While the recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, tofu, or even a medley of vegetables for a vegetarian option. This flexibility allows you to cater to dietary restrictions and personal tastes, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.

Moreover, the dish is packed with protein from the chicken and essential nutrients from the pasta. When paired with a side salad, it becomes a well-rounded meal that keeps everyone satisfied and healthy. You can also sneak in some spinach or broccoli for an added nutritional boost.

Perfect for Leftovers

If you’re looking to meal prep, this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an excellent choice. It keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for lunch the next day, making it a fantastic option for busy individuals or families. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture.

Reheating is simple; just warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creaminess. This means you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish again without the hassle of starting from scratch, which is perfect for those hectic days.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, 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 heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best flavor and texture, make sure not to overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the creamy sauce.

Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged can elevate the taste of your dish. Fresh cheese melts more smoothly and offers a richer flavor, enhancing the overall experience of the meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette can complement the richness of the pasta, creating a balanced meal.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. Additionally, serving with a side of garlic bread can make for a truly comforting dinner experience.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

When reheating, gently warm the pasta on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy consistency. Avoid using the microwave as it may dry out the dish, leading to a less enjoyable experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be substituted for a healthier option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.