© Original recipe by The Pantry Post ©
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight 🍝🧀🍗
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a hearty and flavorful Parmesan Chicken Pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, then this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is perfect for you. It’s an easy pasta recipe that comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Packed with savory flavors, this dish features juicy chicken breasts smothered in a luscious Parmesan cheese sauce, all served over perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re a fan of creamy chicken pasta or looking for a comforting meal, this recipe will surely become your new favorite.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- 8 oz (225 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prepare the Pasta
Cook your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate Parmesan and Seasonings
Add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Pair this Parmesan chicken dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
4. Storage Tips for Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, consider reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.
5. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This easy pasta recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a touch of freshness, add extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon before serving. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. For an extra protein boost, consider adding cooked shrimp or crispy bacon bits.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be less rich and thickened. For better results, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with the milk to create a thicker consistency.
What are some good substitutions for Parmesan cheese?
Parmigiano-Reggiano offers the best flavor, but you can substitute with Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano for a similar salty, savory taste.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire process usually takes about 30 minutes, making it an easy pasta recipe for busy weeknights.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply choose gluten-free pasta varieties, and ensure that the non-stick cookware and ingredients are gluten-free.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
To make this Parmesan Chicken Pasta effortlessly and with professional results, consider using the following kitchen tools:
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – This durable set provides excellent heat distribution and nonstick surfaces, ensuring easy cooking and cleanup.
- Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker with 8 Shaping Discs – Perfect for making fresh pasta at home, elevating your creamy pasta dishes.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – Adding a crispy touch to chicken strips or vegetables for sides.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Ideal for grilling chicken or preparing quick snacks alongside your pasta.
8. Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious, cheesy sauce that will satisfy any craving for comfort food. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavor, it’s a fantastic easy pasta recipe to have in your culinary arsenal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish guarantees smiles all around. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and side dishes to make it your own culinary masterpiece!
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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight
A flavorful and easy-to-make Parmesan chicken pasta with creamy sauce and melted cheese, perfect for weeknights.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet, cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to coat evenly with sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, cover until cheese melts.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust cream and cheese quantities for creamier or thicker sauce.
- Use cooked chicken or rotisserie for faster prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg