© Original recipe by The Recipe Nest ©
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight 🧀🍗🥘
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a **cheesy chicken dish** that combines tender pieces of chicken with luscious, creamy pasta, then this **Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta** recipe is your perfect match. This dish is an irresistible **creamy pasta** that features juicy chicken breast, fragrant garlic, and a rich, cheesy Parmesan sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe delivers deep flavors with minimal effort. Discover how to make this flavorful chicken and pasta combo that will keep everyone coming back for more!
2. Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-step instructions for creamy Parmesan chicken pasta
Preparation of ingredients
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta following package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. While cooking, season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sauté the chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the creamy sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Combine pasta and chicken with the sauce
Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Finishing touches
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot for a truly delicious cheesy chicken dish that everyone will love.
4. Storage tips for leftover creamy pasta
Store any leftover **Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta** in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring until evenly heated. Note that the sauce may thicken upon cooling, so adjusting with a little extra liquid helps maintain its creamy texture.
5. Serving suggestions for cheesy chicken pasta
Serve this **cheesy chicken dish** alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For extra flavor, sprinkle with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water to make your dinner complete. For side dishes, check out our creamy Parmesan spinach and mushroom pasta skillet or garlic Parmesan chicken skewers to complement this main course.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
While heavy cream provides a rich and velvety texture, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less thick and creamy.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply replace the pasta with gluten-free pasta. Always check the package to ensure ingredients are gluten-free.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
With efficient cooking, you can have this **Parmesan chicken pasta** ready in approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli make great additions that enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your creamy pasta.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — This versatile tool helps you quickly prepare crispy chicken or roasted vegetables to serve alongside your pasta, enhancing your cooking experience.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — A must-have for perfect sautéing, whisking, and boiling, making your meal prep smoother and more efficient.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — An excellent addition for grilling chicken or roasting vegetables to complement your dish.
- Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker with 8 Shaping Discs — Create fresh pasta at home to customize your **cheesy chicken pasta** experience further.
8. Conclusion
In sum, this **Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta** recipe combines the comforting richness of creamy pasta with tender, flavorful chicken for an unbeatable dining experience. Its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and versatile serving options make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy creating this indulgent dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight
A rich, creamy pasta dish with tender chicken and Parmesan cheese.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken slices, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, cook until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stir until melted and sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to the skillet, combine with sauce, and cook for a few more minutes.
- Serve over cooked pasta, garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Adjust cream and cheese for creaminess preference.
- For added veggies, toss in spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: High-protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg