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 spaghetti or fettuccine; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover the delightful flavors of this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:45:59.315Z

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and al dente pasta for a delicious meal that is both comforting and quick to prepare.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy parmesan sauce that coats every bite
Tender chicken pieces seasoned to perfection
Quick and easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes

      

A Quick and Delicious Dinner

When you're short on time but still want to serve a delicious meal, Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes to the rescue. This dish combines tender chicken and a creamy parmesan sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, making it both satisfying and flavorful. In just 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready for your family or guests.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a last-minute gathering, this pasta dish will impress everyone at the table.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only quick to prepare, but it also makes for excellent leftovers. If you're looking to streamline your weeknight dinners, consider making a double batch. Store the extra portions in airtight containers for easy reheating throughout the week. The flavors deepen as the pasta sits, making each subsequent meal even more delicious.

To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or a little chicken broth to loosen the sauce. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss of cooking from scratch every night.

Customization Options

One of the great things about Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat pasta or swapping out the heavy cream for a lighter alternative. Adding vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or broccoli can also boost the nutritional value and add vibrant colors to your dish.

If you're a fan of spice, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own while still keeping it simple and delicious.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal that your family will love!

Instructions

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.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add some sautéed vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the pasta.

Storage Tips

To ensure the best quality and flavor, store any leftover Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days. If you're planning to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to separate the portions into individual containers for easy reheating later.

When reheating, be mindful not to overcook the pasta. Adding a little extra cream or broth can help revive the creamy texture of the sauce, making it taste freshly made even after being stored.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to round out the meal. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully, creating a balanced dining experience.

For those who appreciate a little crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or crispy breadcrumbs on top of the dish before serving. This simple addition can elevate your pasta, adding both texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is not just delicious; it also provides a good source of protein thanks to the chicken and calcium from the parmesan cheese. While it is a hearty dish, be mindful of portion sizes if you're watching your calorie intake.

To enhance the nutritional profile, consider incorporating more vegetables or opting for whole grain pasta. These substitutions can help make the dish more balanced while still maintaining the creamy, comforting essence that you love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh when you're ready to serve.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reduce the amount of cheese to lessen the calorie count.