Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful weeknight meal that combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and al dente pasta for a satisfying dish.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2025-12-23T02:48:38.177Z

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Parmesan sauce that coats every bite beautifully
Tender chicken pieces that are perfectly seasoned
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you’re short on time but still want a delicious homemade dinner, this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes to the rescue. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken and creamy Parmesan sauce creates a satisfying dish that your whole family will love. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

This recipe is not only simple but also flexible. You can add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, to make it even more nutritious. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in less than 30 minutes.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, ensure that your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat, locking in its juices and flavor. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

When it comes to the sauce, stirring continuously as you add the Parmesan cheese will help create a smooth and creamy consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. The garlic bread complements the creamy sauce beautifully, while the salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the dish.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or garnishing with sliced jalapeños. These small additions can elevate the dish and provide an exciting flavor twist that will keep your taste buds engaged.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking for the best experience!

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.

Prepare the Chicken

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

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

If you’ve made a large batch and want to freeze some, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming on the stove.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, or use whole wheat pasta instead of penne. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or goat cheese, for a unique flavor.

For added nutrition, incorporate vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, peas, or even roasted red peppers into the dish. These not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a colorful presentation that’s sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers would be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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