Quick Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This Quick Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. It features tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich Parmesan sauce, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Medium bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Garlic press (optional)
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish optional
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned. Set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley (if desired) and extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust the amount of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk or cream. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it's simmering.