Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of my favorite dishes to make. Every time I prepare it, I feel warm and happy inside. The rich, creamy sauce hugs each piece of pasta and chicken, creating a delicious combination. I remember the first time I made Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta for my family. They all loved it! Their smiles and compliments filled my heart with joy.
Gathering the Ingredients
To make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I start by gathering all the ingredients. I need chicken breast, pasta, heavy cream, garlic, and, of course, Parmesan cheese. I enjoy picking fresh ingredients from the local market. The smell of garlic and cheese makes my mouth water. I know that this meal will be special, just like every time I make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
Cooking Together
As I cook, I remember the laughter we share in the kitchen. I boil the pasta until it’s just right and sauté the chicken until golden brown. The garlic sizzles in the pan, filling the room with a wonderful aroma. I slowly mix in the cream and cheese, watching as the sauce becomes thick and creamy. I can’t help but taste it along the way. Each bite reminds me of family dinners, and I can’t wait to serve my Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
When the pasta is ready, I call everyone to the table. The smiles on their faces make my heart swell. We sit together, sharing stories and enjoying the meal I’ve prepared. Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta brings us closer, reminding us of the simple joys of family. After dinner, we always have seconds and sometimes even thirds! I know that as long as I have this recipe, I will always have a way to share love with my family.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Always pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice sear, which enhances flavor.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step retains its juices, ensuring a tender result.
- When adding chicken broth, scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth to the flavor of your sauce.
- Make sure the penne pasta is cooked to al dente for the best texture. It should have a slight bite to it, which holds up well in the creamy sauce.
- After stirring in the cheese and cream, turn off the heat before mixing. This prevents the cheese from clumping and helps maintain a smooth sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or extra chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide a pleasant heat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
4
servings5
minutes30
minutes600
kcal5
minutes40
minutesDiscover the ultimate comfort meal with our Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This dish combines tender chicken breast with perfectly cooked penne in a luscious Parmesan sauce, all prepared in a single pan. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s a restaurant-quality dinner you can whip up in just 35 minutes. Let the rich flavors and creamy texture elevate your dining experience tonight!
Ingredients
- Protein
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts flattened to half-inch thickness
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Vegetables
1 cup diced yellow onion
4-6 cloves finely minced garlic
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- Seasonings Flavorings
1 tablespoon Italian herbs blend
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pasta Liquids
8 ounces penne pasta regular or gluten-free
2 cups chicken stock
- Dairy
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chicken Breast: Substitute with turkey cutlets or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Penne Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta varieties like rice or chickpea penne.
Parmesan Cheese: Replace with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Heavy Cream: Use coconut cream or a cashew cream blend for a dairy-free version.
Chicken Broth: Opt for vegetable broth to make the recipe vegetarian.
Olive Oil: Can substitute with avocado oil or another neutral cooking oil.
Directions
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Thoroughly pat the chicken breasts dry and evenly coat both sides with the seasoning mixture. Let it sit while you prepare the pan.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium-low and add butter and an additional splash of olive oil to the same pan. Add the diced onion, seasoning lightly with salt, and sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to soften and become translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
- Prepare the Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the penne pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta reaches al dente texture.
- Create the Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Combine and Serve: Slice the rested chicken into strips and return them to the pan with the pasta. Toss everything together to ensure an even distribution of the sauce and chicken. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy Parmesan chicken pasta!
Equipment
- cutting board
- knife set
- large pan with lid
- tongs
- spatula
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 600kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Vitamin A: 15IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 15mg
FAQ- Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version or use a cashew cream blend for a lighter option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure the chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and vegetables in advance. Just cook the pasta and assemble everything right before serving for the best texture.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using less butter and cheese, incorporating more vegetables, or serving it alongside a fresh salad to increase the meal’s nutritional value.
