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Featured image of a creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta dish.

Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ultimate Recipe

This Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe delivers a comforting and creamy indulgence perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a rich Parmesan sauce, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Get ready to impress with this simple yet satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lb pasta penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  6. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  7. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it!
  8. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
  9. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  10. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  11. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  12. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
  13. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
  14. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  15. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few more minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add chicken broth or pasta water. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding milk or chicken broth as needed. Variations include adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, mozzarella, provolone, Asiago cheese, fresh basil, oregano, or thyme. Shrimp or sausage can be used instead of chicken.