Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 8 oz pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Whip up a comforting and delicious dinner in no time with this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. Featuring tender chicken breasts, al dente pasta, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and will satisfy the whole family. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2025-11-26T16:32:09.305Z

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a family favorite that combines tender chicken and creamy sauce in a delightful way.

A Comforting Classic

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the embodiment of comfort food. It combines the savory flavors of tender chicken with the creamy richness of Parmesan sauce, making it a delightful dish that everyone can agree on. The combination of the al dente pasta with the sauce clings to every noodle, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. This recipe is not just delicious but also quick to prepare, which makes it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want a meal that feels indulgent without the hassle.

Whether you are feeding a family or just yourself, this dish is versatile and can be easily scaled up or down. It's an excellent option for meal prepping as well, allowing you to enjoy hearty portions throughout the week. Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal that satisfies without overwhelming your schedule.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the most appealing aspects of Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its adaptability. It can be dressed up for a special occasion or kept casual for a weeknight dinner at home. Consider serving it on a festive table, perhaps alongside a bottle of white wine, for a romantic dinner. On the flip side, it's comfort food at its core, making it equally suitable for those cozy nights in.

The simplicity of the ingredients lets the flavors shine while requiring minimal effort, making this dish feel like a gourmet meal. Whether you’re hosting a busy family dinner or enjoying a quiet evening, it fits perfectly into any culinary scenario.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

This recipe is characterized by its straightforward ingredients, each contributing to the overall flavor profile. The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that envelops the tender chicken and pasta. The key is in using high-quality Parmesan cheese, as it elevates the dish and adds a distinct tang that makes it irresistible.

Moreover, the use of fresh herbs, like parsley, adds brightness and a touch of color, making your plate visually appealing. This dish showcases how simple ingredients can culminate in an extraordinary dining experience, proving that you don't need to be a professional chef to create something magnificent.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, diced
8 oz pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Make sure to serve your pasta hot for the best taste!

Cooking Tips

To ensure your chicken cooks evenly, make sure to cut it into uniform pieces. This not only aids in quicker cooking but also enhances the overall texture of the dish. Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking to improve the flavor.

When preparing the pasta, keep an eye on the cooking time. Undercooking it slightly helps achieve the perfect al dente texture, keeping the pasta firm as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meal. A crisp, fresh salad enhances the experience and adds a refreshing element that complements the creamy pasta.

For an added touch, offer some extra Parmesan cheese and cracked pepper at the table for guests to use according to their preference. This not only allows for customization but also enhances the flavor with an additional layer of savory richness.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or a bit of chicken stock to prevent the pasta from drying out, while helping it regain its creamy texture. Heat over low until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

This dish also freezes well. Portion it into suitable containers, and you can enjoy this delightful meal at a later date. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing and freezing to preserve its flavors and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking time as necessary.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, though the consistency and flavor may vary.