If you’re craving comfort food that’s both hearty and downright delicious, get ready for Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day—tender strips of chicken mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a luxuriously rich and cheesy sauce. Bursts of fresh garlic and Italian herbs make every bite irresistible. It’s easy enough for a cozy weeknight dinner but special enough to impress guests—so grab your fork and let’s dive into a dish that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen!

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple, quality ingredients, you can create a show-stopping Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Each ingredient is chosen for its ability to add flavor, texture, or that classic golden color we all love. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each item matters:

Olive oil: Provides a robust base for searing the chicken and lays down extra flavor in every layer.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Sliced into strips, these soak in the seasonings and stay juicy.
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a warm, savory note that complements the fresh garlic later.
Italian seasoning: Adds those signature herbal undertones for a classic taste.
Salt: Enhances every flavor—don’t skip it!
Black pepper: Lends a little zippy heat to balance the creamy sauce.
Fresh garlic cloves, minced: Make the sauce pop with aroma and a subtle, sweet bite.
Heavy cream: The secret behind that dreamy, velvety sauce.
Parmesan cheese, grated: Delivers bold, nutty flavor and melts beautifully into the sauce.
Chicken broth: Lends depth to the sauce and keeps things from getting too rich.
Fettuccine or penne pasta, cooked and drained: Holds the creamy sauce perfectly, so you get flavor in every forkful.
Butter: Adds a final gloss and sumptuous flavor to the sauce.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Sprinkles on a touch of color and a burst of freshness right before serving.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan warms up, generously season your sliced chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Arrange the chicken strips in the hot skillet and give them space to brown—about 6 to 8 minutes should do it. The end result? Golden, juicy chicken strips with plenty of flavor on every edge. Remove the chicken and set it aside; it will make a delicious return later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet (don’t wash it—you want those tasty bits left behind), melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about one minute, stirring, until the aroma is mouthwatering and the garlic is soft and fragrant. This step sets the stage for a truly flavorful Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta sauce.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to blend all those savory bits into the sauce. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes; this helps the liquid reduce ever so slightly, concentrating the flavors. A silky, creamy base is just moments away!

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Now, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently as it melts, transforming the sauce into a dreamy, luscious blanket. The cheese thickens everything up and gives you that signature savory tang—smooth, creamy, and totally irresistible.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Slide the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with any juices it’s released. Add your freshly cooked pasta and gently toss to coat every piece in sauce. Let the Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing all the textures and flavors to come together in harmony. Just before serving, a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and brightness.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

No bowl of Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is complete without a flurry of garnishes. Freshly cracked black pepper, a generous shower of extra grated Parmesan, and flecks of chopped parsley make the plate look as good as it tastes. If you want a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes invites a gentle warmth that cuts through the richness. Garnish right before serving to keep things fresh and vibrant.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and crave-worthy, so consider pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a bright Caesar. Warm garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are perfect for scooping up any extra sauce left behind. As a bonus, lightly roasted vegetables such as asparagus or cherry tomatoes complement the creamy pasta beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a touch of elegance, twist the pasta onto each plate using tongs and lay the chicken strips over the top. Add a sprig of parsley and a delicate dusting of Parmesan right before bringing it to the table. For a family-style meal, serve directly from the skillet so everyone can help themselves and soak up the wonderful creaminess from the very first spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the chicken and pasta mixed together so they soak up every drop of sauce, making reheated leftovers just as satisfying.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers. The sauce may separate a bit after thawing, but a quick stir during reheating brings it back together nicely. It’s best enjoyed within a month for peak flavor and texture.

Reheating

To revive Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to make the sauce silky once more. Stir occasionally until heated through. For microwave reheating, cover the bowl and use medium power, stirring halfway for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Fettuccine and penne both work beautifully, but you can absolutely swap in rigatoni, linguine, or even spaghetti. Just pick a shape that holds sauce well for the best Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta experience.

What’s the best way to make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half in place of heavy cream. You can also add sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli to get a veggie boost with minimal extra effort.

Can I add other vegetables or proteins?

Definitely! Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is super versatile. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach right before adding the chicken back to the skillet. You could also swap the chicken for shrimp or even leftover roasted vegetables.

What makes the sauce creamy without splitting?

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese naturally thickens without curdling. Be sure to cook over medium-low heat and avoid rapid boiling once the cheese is added—slow and gentle wins the race for a smooth sauce every time.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety, and double-check that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. The sauce will turn out just as luscious, making this a perfect option for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and a dash of elegance, Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is calling your name. Easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner yet irresistibly decadent, it’s sure to win hearts in your household. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients, give it a try, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, joy-filled forkful!

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this rich and creamy Parmesan chicken pasta that’s quick and easy to make. Tender chicken strips are coated in a luscious Parmesan sauce, served over perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter

For Serving:

12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta, cooked and drained
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, season chicken, cook until browned. Set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, pour in broth and cream, simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and cook until creamy.
Combine: Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked pasta, toss to combine. Simmer briefly. Garnish and serve hot.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
You can also add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American