Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; Salt for boiling water; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

A delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy Parmesan sauce and al dente pasta.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:09:31.631Z

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a go-to weeknight meal that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite among families.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Parmesan sauce that coats every bite
Quick and easy to prepare in under 35 minutes
A family-friendly dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When the week gets busy, finding time to prepare a delicious dinner can be a challenge. That's where this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes in. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe takes just under 35 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for those who need to whip up dinner quickly. The creamy Parmesan sauce clings to the pasta and chicken, creating a comforting dish that will leave everyone at the table happy and full.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its versatility. While the recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, tofu, or even add seasonal vegetables for a more colorful and nutritious meal. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for families with various dietary preferences.

Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta too. While penne is a great option, you can use spaghetti, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your needs. The creamy Parmesan sauce will complement any pasta shape, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you love meal prepping, this Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a great dish to include in your weekly rotation. It stores well in the refrigerator, and the flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.

To make meal prep even easier, consider cooking a larger batch of the sauce and chicken, then dividing it into portions. You can cook fresh pasta daily or keep some pre-cooked pasta on hand for a quick assembly. This way, you can enjoy a homemade, creamy pasta dish without the hassle on your busiest days.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz penne pasta
Salt for boiling water

For the Chicken

2 chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix and match your favorite pasta shapes and enjoy!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best results with this recipe, be sure to use high-quality Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the sauce and provides a rich, nutty flavor that pre-packaged cheese simply can't match. If possible, buy a wedge of Parmesan and grate it yourself for the best taste.

When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. If your skillet is too full, the chicken will steam instead of brown, which can affect the overall flavor and texture. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure perfectly golden and juicy chicken pieces.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A light side of sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli can enhance the meal without overwhelming the palate. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

For a special touch, consider serving this dish with garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the richness of the pasta and provides an extra layer of comfort. Top it all off with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a glass of white wine for an effortless yet impressive dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

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

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and combine before serving.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.