Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a tasty, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients like tender chicken, creamy Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s all about that rich, cheesy flavor mixed with a touch of garlic and herbs for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this dish when I want something delicious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. It’s great because the Parmesan melts into the sauce and coats the pasta so well, making every bite super flavorful. A little sprinkle of fresh parsley on top lifts the whole dish and makes it look just right.
My favorite way to enjoy this pasta is with a side of steamed veggies or a crisp green salad. It’s filling without being heavy, which is perfect for weeknight dinners or when friends come over for a casual meal. This dish always gets compliments, and it’s so easy to whip up that I keep coming back to it again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or tagliatelle work great because their flat shape holds the creamy sauce well. You can swap with linguine or even spaghetti if needed.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts cook quickly and stay tender. Thighs are juicier and add more flavor if you prefer.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and adds a nutty flavor. Pre-grated cheese can work but may not melt as well. Pecorino Romano is a sharper alternative.
Cream & Butter: Heavy cream gives richness to the sauce. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a mix of milk with cream cheese. Butter helps create a silky sauce texture.
Chicken Broth or Pasta Water: Both add moisture and help loosen the sauce. Using pasta water adds extra starch, helping the sauce cling better to noodles.
How Do You Make a Creamy Parmesan Sauce Without It Becoming Grainy or Clumpy?
Getting a smooth Parmesan cream sauce can be tricky but is easy with a few tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan; pre-grated cheeses often have additives that prevent smooth melting.
- Sauté garlic gently in butter to release flavor but avoid burning, which can cause bitterness.
- Add cream and broth slowly and bring to a gentle simmer before adding cheese.
- Stir cheese in gradually over low heat to prevent curdling or graininess.
- If the sauce thickens too much, thin it with reserved pasta water or broth to get the perfect consistency.
Keep stirring gently but steadily to help the cheese melt evenly and the sauce stay creamy and smooth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for cooking pasta evenly in plenty of water.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – great for cooking chicken and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir sauce and pasta without scratching your pan.
- Cheese grater – freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes fresher than pre-grated.
- Colander – to drain pasta easily and save some cooking water for your sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist that cooks quickly.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and earthiness.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy burst that brightens the cream sauce.
- Use pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper, saltier taste.
Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or pasta cooking water
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total: 10-12 minutes to cook the pasta and chicken, then another 8-10 minutes to prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce and put everything together. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but tastes like you spent a lot more time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Before draining, scoop out ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and set it aside. Then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Making the Parmesan Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute — be careful not to let it burn. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add more chicken broth or pasta water until it reaches the consistency you like.
4. Combining Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Season with additional salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like a little heat.
5. Serving:
Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, creamy, and delicious Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or a mix of milk with a tablespoon of cream cheese to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid skim milk, as it may not thicken properly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers 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 broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite veggies instead. You could also use plant-based chicken substitutes for a similar texture.
