Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of those dinners that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. It combines tender chicken pieces with pasta smothered in a creamy Parmesan sauce that’s rich without being heavy. The cheese adds just the right amount of flavor, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
I love making this dish when I want something quick but still a little special. The best part is how simple it is to throw together, even on busy weeknights. I usually toss in some garlic and a sprinkle of herbs to boost the flavor, and it never fails to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, which is always a win in my book.
My favorite way to serve this pasta is with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the Parmesan sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels homey and filling but still fresh and light. Whenever I make it, it brings a little comfort and joy to the dinner table, and I’m pretty sure it will do the same for you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless works best for quick, even cooking. You can swap for chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat, but adjust cooking time slightly.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes more vibrant than pre-grated. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago are good alternatives.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine are perfect to hold the creamy sauce. You can use any pasta you like, such as penne or spaghetti.
Cherry tomatoes (optional): I add these for a pop of freshness and sweetness, but you can leave them out or add sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
How Do I Cook Chicken So It Stays Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken breast without drying it out can be tricky. Here’s what helps me:
- Season well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking.
- Heat the skillet and olive oil before adding chicken so it sears quickly.
- Cook over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side—don’t move the chicken too much to get a nice golden crust.
- Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking. This helps juices redistribute and keeps it moist.
- Slice just before serving, so the warm sauce keeps it tender.
Following these steps gives you perfectly cooked chicken that complements the creamy pasta sauce beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta – you’ll need this to cook your fettuccine or linguine just right.
- Tongs or spatula – great for flipping chicken without breaking it apart.
- Colander – makes draining pasta easy and quick.
- Grater – fresh Parmesan tastes best when grated right before adding to the sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a lighter, seafood twist that cooks quickly.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale for a boost of greens and color.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes to add a tangy, rich flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Use Italian seasoning or fresh basil for a herbal touch and extra aroma.
Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Chicken:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Sauce & Toppings:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s a great option when you want a quick, comforting meal on the table fast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to mix. Bring this to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If you’d like, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to soften them.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce & Serve:
Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet, tossing it so the noodles are well coated with the creamy sauce. Season with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta on plates, topped with sliced chicken breasts. Sprinkle fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top for a beautiful finishing touch. Enjoy your delicious meal right away!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best method is to thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for faster thawing. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking to get a nice sear.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Milk?
You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. To help thicken it, try adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water. Cooking the sauce a bit longer can also help it reduce and thicken.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pasta and chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick or dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta, and double-check that your chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free for a safe swap.
