Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy Parmesan sauce.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-12-22T21:57:31.605Z

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner, combining delicious ingredients that come together in no time.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy Parmesan sauce that coats every bite
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables

      

A Perfect Family Meal

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an ideal dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken create a comforting dish that everyone will love. You can easily prepare this meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families who still want to enjoy a homemade dinner. Plus, the ingredients are simple and often already in your pantry, which means less stress when planning your meals.

This recipe not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers a great way to get your family together at the dinner table. The aroma of garlic and Parmesan wafting through your kitchen is sure to draw everyone in. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that pleases even the pickiest of eaters.

Customization Options

One of the best features of Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes can be excellent additions, adding both nutrition and color to your plate. If you want to switch up the protein, shrimp or even a vegetarian option like chickpeas could work beautifully.

Additionally, you can play around with the cheese. While Parmesan is classic, mixing in some mozzarella or even a sprinkle of feta can give the dish an exciting twist. Don't hesitate to experiment; this recipe is designed to be adaptable to your tastes and preferences!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after making this delicious pasta, storing them is a breeze. Simply transfer the cooled pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. The creamy sauce may thicken when stored, but don't worry! A splash of milk or cream can help to loosen it up when you're ready to reheat.

To reheat, you can use a microwave or a stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming. If using the stovetop, add a little extra cream or broth while gently stirring over low heat until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of your Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta even days later!

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting to cook!

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 diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Benefits

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta not only satisfies cravings but also provides essential nutrients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle development and repair. Combined with whole-grain penne, this dish offers a good amount of fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you full longer.

The inclusion of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese adds calcium to your diet, important for bone health. When you add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, you'll increase the vitamin and mineral content, making this dish not just delicious but also nourishing.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in these wines complements the creaminess of the dish beautifully. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can provide a refreshing contrast.

For side dishes, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonders to balance the richness of the pasta. Alternatively, garlic bread or a warm baguette can be excellent choices for soaking up the leftover sauce, ensuring you enjoy every last bite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

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

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Broccoli, bell peppers, or peas are great additions.