1. Introduction
If you’re craving something cozy, creamy, and satisfying, Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is your answer. Tender chicken, silky parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in one comforting bowl. It feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a busy weeknight. The best part? It’s rich, cheesy, and full of flavor—without being complicated.
2. Ingredients (With Exact Measurements)
Serves: 4
Protein & Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450–500 g), sliced into strips
- 250 g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work best)
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or fresh cream)
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (use real Parmesan for best flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 cup spinach or broccoli florets
For Garnish
- Extra grated Parmesan
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
3. Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
Get these ready before you start:
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet or pan (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or Spatula
- Measuring cups and Measuring spoons
- Colander
- Whisk (for smooth sauce)
4. Preparation Steps (Easy & Clear)
- Slice the chicken into even strips so it cooks evenly.
- Mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese fresh.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- Measure out all ingredients and keep them nearby. This makes cooking stress-free.
5. Cooking Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds (don’t burn it).
- Pour in cream and milk. Stir gently and bring to a low simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the pan.
- Toss gently until everything is coated in the sauce.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
Pro Tip: Keep heat on low at this stage to avoid curdling the cream.
6. Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color.
- Pair it with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.
- A squeeze of lemon at the end adds a fresh twist.
7. Additional Tips & Variations
- Healthier version: Use half-and-half or cooking cream and add more veggies.
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of chicken broth to deepen the sauce.
- Spicy kick: Increase chili flakes or add a pinch of paprika.
- Protein swap: Try shrimp or mushrooms instead of chicken.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta without changing anything else.
8. Nutrition Details (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~620 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | ~720 mg |
9. FAQ Section
Q1: Can I store leftovers?
Yes. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q2: How do I reheat it without drying out?
Reheat on low heat with a splash of milk or cream.
Q3: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Freshly grated is best, but pre-grated works in a pinch (sauce may be slightly less smooth).
Q4: Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but it tastes best fresh. Reheat gently before serving.
Q5: How can I make it lighter?
Use less cheese, swap cream for milk, and add more veggies.
10. Wrap-Up
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have. Fun fact: creamy pasta dishes became popular as home-style comfort food because they stretch simple ingredients into something luxurious—and this recipe proves exactly that.
Once you try it, this dish might just become a regular on your dinner table. 🍝✨
