. Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta – esrecipes

Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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I remember cozy weeknight dinners at my grandmother’s house. The smell of garlic and simmering sauce always filled the air. Everyone would gather around the table, laughter and stories flowing as freely as the pasta. Those memories are what inspired this recipe: Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s a comforting dish, bursting with flavor, and – the best part – it’s surprisingly simple to make. This isn’t a complicated, hours-long endeavor. It’s designed for busy families and anyone who craves a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be honest, sometimes you need a win. Life gets hectic, and cooking something amazing feels like a luxury. This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta delivers on that feeling without requiring a culinary degree. Here’s why it’s a winner:

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for weeknights.
  • Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken.
  • Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs creates a truly irresistible taste.
  • Versatile: Easily customizable with different vegetables or proteins.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Great for a casual dinner party or a comforting meal for one.

The Ingredient List – What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life. Don’t worry, it’s a pretty standard pantry list!

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work best)
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions – Let’s Get Cooking!

Alright, let’s make some magic! These steps are straightforward, even for beginner cooks.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
  3. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This is your secret weapon for a perfectly creamy sauce!
  4. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the cubed chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  3. Sprinkle the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

  1. In the same skillet (don’t wash it!), melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. This is where that reserved water really shines!

Step 4: Combine & Serve!

  1. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the Parmesan cream sauce.
  2. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy every delicious bite!

Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions – Level Up Your Dish!

Want to make this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta even better? Here are some ideas:

  • Add Vegetables: Sauté some chopped broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the garlic for extra nutrients and flavor.
  • Spice it Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Creamier Sauce: For an extra decadent sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese.
  • Different Cheese: Try using a blend of Parmesan and Romano cheese for a richer flavor.
  • Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest brightens up the sauce beautifully. Add it right at the end.
  • Herbs: Fresh basil or oregano also works wonderfully in place of parsley.
  • Serve with a Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing makes a great accompaniment.
  • Garlic Bread: Because, who doesn’t love garlic bread?

Making it Healthier

  • Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap out the regular pasta for whole wheat for added fiber.
  • Greek Yogurt: Substitute half of the heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter but still creamy sauce. Be sure to stir it in gently to avoid curdling.
  • More Veggies: The more vegetables you add, the more nutritious the dish becomes!

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Serving Size: 1 cup

  • Calories: 550-650
  • Protein: 35-45g
  • Fat: 25-35g
  • Carbohydrates: 50-60g

Please note: This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal Awaits!

There you have it – Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a recipe that proves delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to customize to your liking. Don’t be intimidated – give it a try! I promise, you’ll be back for seconds (and thirds!). Share your creations with me – tag us on social media with #EasyParmesanChickenPasta. Happy cooking!

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