This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that makes you sigh with satisfaction after every bite. Imagine tender chicken pieces nestled among penne pasta, all smothered in a velvety parmesan sauce with just the right hint of garlic and a pop of spinach to bring it to life. Best of all, it comes together quickly in a single pan, making it an absolute hero for busy weeknights and indulgent weekends alike. If you adore comforting, crowd-pleasing meals that never feel fussy, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta lies in its balance of simple, everyday ingredients that each play a starring role in flavor and texture. From rich Parmesan to fresh greens, every element brings something special to the party.
- Olive Oil: Gives the chicken a gorgeous golden sear while adding a subtle fruity undertone.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and perfectly tender when cooked in the sauce.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the savory flavors.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with warmth and complexity.
- Chicken Broth: Forms the savory backbone of the creamy base and keeps everything moist.
- Heavy Cream: Adds unbeatable richness and a luxurious texture to the sauce.
- Penne Pasta: Its ridges hold onto all the delicious sauce, making every bite extra creamy.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: The secret to deep umami flavor and a perfectly silky sauce.
- Italian Seasoning: Brings classic herbaceous notes to complement the creamy base.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Toss in for a gently spicy twist that isn’t overpowering.
- Fresh Spinach (optional): Wilts beautifully into the sauce for color and extra nutrients.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: The perfect vibrant garnish to finish the dish.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. While the pan warms, season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken, spreading it out in an even layer. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully browned and cooked through; you’re aiming for juicy, golden bites that will soak up the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Build Aroma with Garlic
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the cooked chicken and stir for about a minute. The heat will mellow the garlic’s bite and bloom its natural sweetness, layering depth upon depth into your skillet. Don’t rush this step—the heady aroma is your sign it’s working its magic.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Now pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Add the uncooked penne pasta directly to the pan, nestling it into the luscious liquid. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then immediately lower to a simmer. Cover and let the pasta cook for 12 to 15 minutes, pausing to stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. The pasta will absorb the creamy broth, turning irresistibly soft but never mushy.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese & Seasonings
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. For a whisper of heat, add the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir so the cheese melds into the sauce and the herbs become fragrant. If you’re using spinach, toss it in now and let it wilt for 1 to 2 minutes, turning the mixture a gorgeous shade of green.
Step 5: Taste, Adjust & Finish
Taste the Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta and tweak the seasoning if needed—sometimes a final pinch of salt or pepper is all it takes to perfect the flavor. Once you’re happy, sprinkle on a shower of fresh chopped parsley for brightness. Serve immediately, spooning generous portions into warm bowls.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
For maximum wow-factor, top each serving with a flourish of extra Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped parsley. You can also add a light dusting of cracked black pepper or a few shavings of Parmesan for that classic trattoria touch. A drizzle of good olive oil just before serving adds even more richness and sheen.
Side Dishes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette or a platter of roasted vegetables. For a little crunch, serve it with warm, crusty bread or garlicky breadsticks, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce. If you’re looking to keep things light, steamed broccoli or asparagus on the side is always a hit.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this dish into a dinner party showstopper by serving it family-style in a vibrant serving bowl, topped with colorful microgreens. For an elegant touch, serve individual portions in shallow pasta bowls and arrange extra spinach and Parmesan artistically on top. If you’re feeling playful, try spooning the pasta into parmesan cheese “nests” for added crunch and intrigue.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftover Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen as it rests, making the leftovers nearly as crave-worthy as the first time around.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, though the sauce may lose some of its silky quality upon thawing due to the cream. If you’d like to freeze it, cool the pasta completely first, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. For best results, reheat gently and add a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, simply scoop the pasta into a skillet or saucepan with a splash of milk or chicken broth. Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring often to bring back its creamy consistency. If you’re heating a single portion, the microwave works—just cover loosely and stir halfway to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While penne’s shape is perfect for catching sauce, rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni are also great options for Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Choose your favorite, but keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can swap in half-and-half for a lighter touch, or even use whole milk with an extra tablespoon of flour to help the sauce thicken. The result will be slightly less rich but still delicious and creamy.
Is this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
It can be! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of regular penne. Check your chicken broth label too, as some brands may contain gluten.
Can I add vegetables or other mix-ins?
Definitely—this recipe is endlessly adaptable! Try tossing in sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and flavor. Even peas or broccoli can be stirred in with beautiful results.
What’s the best way to make this in advance for a party?
Make the pasta through Step 4, then stop before adding spinach or final garnishes. Reheat gently just before serving, stir in the spinach (if using), and add fresh parsley on top. This ensures the dish stays bright and fresh for your guests.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, cozy, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters, give Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta a spot on your weekly menu. It’s simple enough for a busy Tuesday but special enough to share with friends or family for a comforting get-together. I can’t wait for you to whip up this pasta and watch it disappear from everyone’s plates!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal with this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce come together in one delicious dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add garlic: Cook minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour liquids: Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stir in uncooked penne pasta.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Finish dish: Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Add spinach if desired and cook until wilted. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
