© Original recipe by Tasty Keepsakes ©
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight 🍝🧀🐔
1. Introduction
Looking for a comforting, cheesy dish that combines succulent chicken, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta? Dive into this Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe, also known as a Cheesy Chicken Pasta or Creamy Italian Pasta. This dish is an ideal weeknight dinner that will satisfy every palate with its indulgent flavors and hearty texture. Whether you’re craving a classic chicken Alfredo, or a cheesy chicken pasta, this recipe brings a delicious twist with Parmesan and a velvety sauce that everyone will love.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- 12 oz of your favorite pasta (penne or fettuccine work beautifully)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Preparation of the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, then set aside.
Cooking the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Garlic
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat and add heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Combining the Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Serve this Chicken Parmesan Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan on top just before serving.
6. Tips & Variations for Making the Perfect Dish
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for more flavor.
- Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, adding it at the end to prevent curdling.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost nutrition.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed to accommodate dietary restrictions.
7. Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to prevent the sauce from breaking. It’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
What are suitable substitutions for heavy cream?
You can use evaporated milk, half-and-half, or Greek yogurt as lighter alternatives. Just remember to add yogurt at the end to prevent curdling.
How long does it take to prepare this creamy Italian pasta?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick dinner solution.
Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
To make it low-carb, substitute traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spiralized vegetables.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures even heating and easy cleanup when preparing sauces and sautéing chicken, making your cooking experience smoother.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quickly preparing crispy chicken strips if you prefer baked over pan-fried.
- Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker — For fresh, homemade pasta that elevates your Chicken Pasta dish to a gourmet level.
9. Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed family favorite that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s simple to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or craving comfort food, this dish offers everything you need for a satisfying meal. Explore our additional recipes like one-pan creamy Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta or indulge in sweet treats such as decadent strawberry cream puffs. Get cooking and enjoy a delightful meal that will impress everyone at your table!
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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight
A quick and creamy parmesan chicken pasta that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken slices, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Add cooked pasta and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 540 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 130mg