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

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the creamy goodness of Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Tender chicken is tossed with al dente pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce that's packed with flavor. Perfect for busy families, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an effortless yet satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-12T02:16:57.167Z

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just another weeknight meal; it's a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish strikes the balance between gourmet and casual dining. The use of fresh ingredients ensures that each bite is packed with flavor, making it a family favorite that’s both memorable and satisfying.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delightful meal in 30 minutes or less. Whether you're cooking for a busy family or a small gathering, Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta provides an impressive yet low-stress dinner solution. Plus, it allows room for creativity; feel free to add vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to pairing wines with Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider a light Chardonnay or a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. These wines complement the creamy sauce without overpowering the dish’s delicate flavors. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir can also work beautifully, enhancing the meal's overall experience.

For a side dish, a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice can provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Additionally, garlic bread is a delightful choice that adds texture and flavor, perfect for soaking up that delicious cheesy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the flavors fresh, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or a little milk to bring back the creamy texture.

If you prefer to freeze the dish, it's best to do so before adding the cheese sauce. Cook the chicken and pasta separately, then freeze them in airtight containers. When you're ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and prepare the sauce fresh for a quick meal.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to combine with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve

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

Nutritional Benefits

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta not only delights your taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The heavy cream brings rich flavor while supplying calcium and vitamins A and D, contributing to a balanced diet.

While pasta can sometimes be viewed as a less healthy option, using whole grain penne can add fiber to your meal, which helps with digestion and keeps you fuller longer. Overall, you can enjoy this dish knowing that it supports your nutritional needs without sacrificing taste.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta to suit your preferences. For a burst of color and nutrition, consider adding sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers. These vegetables can enhance the dish's flavor profile and visual appeal while providing additional vitamins and minerals.

For a twist on the classic recipe, try experimenting with different cheeses beyond Parmesan, such as mozzarella for extra gooeyness or Gorgonzola for a tangy kick. You can also switch up the protein with shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option that caters to a variety of dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well in this recipe.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

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