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Deliciously Simple Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Featured Image

Deliciously Simple Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Learn how to make delicious Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially fresh Parmesan and quality chicken breasts. I always opt for freshly grated Parmesan when I can—it melts better and has a depth of flavor that pre-grated versions just don’t match. For the chicken, I look for skinless, boneless breasts that are firm and pale pink. The pasta should be cooked just al dente to hold up well in the creamy sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 8 ounces penne or your favorite pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Substitution tip: If you prefer a lighter option, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half, but keep in mind it may not be quite as rich. For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  6. Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
  7. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, recipe, cooking, food