The Ultimate Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta You'll Crave (Print Version)
How to make easy Parmesan chicken pasta with tender chicken, rich parmesan, and a creamy sauce that's ready in under 30 minutes.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Dietary: Omnivore
# Ingredients:
→ Main Components
01 -
12 ounces Fettuccine or Penne Pasta
02 -
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
03 -
2 cups heavy cream
04 -
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
05 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Flavor Builders
06 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
08 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 -
1 cup chicken broth
→ Seasonings
10 -
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
11 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
12 -
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
→ Finishing & Optional Kick
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
14 -
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook pasta according to package directions. While pasta cooks, dice chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season well. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic, setting them aside for the next steps. This is your base for Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside, reserving any flavorful drippings.
03 -
To the same skillet, melt butter. Add the finely diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, avoiding browning. This builds the flavor foundation.
04 -
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
05 -
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the simmering sauce. Add the drained fettuccine or penne pasta directly to the pan. Toss everything gently to ensure the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the luxurious, creamy Parmesan sauce.
06 -
Garnish your Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta generously with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, enjoying a warm, comforting bowl that truly satisfies. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.
# Notes:
01 -
Use freshly grated Parmesan to prevent gritty sauce and ensure proper melting for a smooth, creamy texture.
02 -
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
03 -
For a gluten-free meal, simply swap traditional pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety; the sauce is naturally GF.
04 -
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Pair with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread.
05 -
Prep cooked chicken and sauce ahead for convenience; cook pasta fresh just before serving for optimal texture.
06 -
Enhance umami by simmering a Parmesan rind in the chicken broth, then remove before adding cream.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
large pot
02 -
large skillet
03 -
cutting board
04 -
sharp knife
05 -
grater
06 -
measuring cups
07 -
measuring spoons
08 -
spatula
09 -
tongs
10 -
airtight container
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 780
Total Fat: 44g
Total Carbohydrate: 43g
Protein: 48g