Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a dish that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy Parmesan sauce that’s just bursting with flavor. It’s simple but feels special, making it a great weeknight dinner for when you want something tasty without the fuss. The combination of gooey cheese and comforting pasta always hits the spot!
I love making this recipe because it’s quick and forgiving—you don’t have to be a chef to get it right. I usually toss in some garlic and a bit of butter to give it extra richness, and sometimes a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. It’s one of those dishes I find myself going back to when I’m short on time but still want a warm, satisfying meal.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this pasta is with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies to keep things balanced. Leftovers are amazing too—the flavors deepen overnight and it reheats like a charm. Whenever I serve this dish to friends or family, I always get a “wow, this is so good!” which definitely makes me smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless works best for quick cooking. You can swap for thighs if you want juicier meat, but cook time may vary.
Fettuccine pasta: This wide, flat pasta holds the creamy sauce nicely. If not on hand, try linguine or even spaghetti as substitutes.
Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of flour to thicken.
Parmesan cheese: It’s key for flavor and thickening the sauce. Freshly grated is best. You can substitute Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Garlic & butter: Garlic gives a savory punch; butter adds richness to the sauce base. If you prefer, swap butter for olive oil to keep it lighter.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and the Sauce Perfectly Creamy?
Start by seasoning chicken well with salt and pepper to boost flavor. Cook over medium-high heat to get a golden crust while locking juices inside. Avoid crowding the pan, so pieces brown instead of steaming.
- Let chicken rest after cooking. This keeps juices locked inside when slicing.
- For the sauce, melt butter and gently sauté garlic—don’t burn it, or it will taste bitter.
- Add cream and Parmesan off the heat to prevent curdling. Stir until smooth.
- Simmer sauce gently to thicken—too hot and it can break.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling the pasta without crowding it.
- Large skillet or frying pan – you’ll cook the chicken and make the sauce in one pan, saving time and dishes.
- Tongs or spatula – helps flip the chicken easily without breaking it.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the sauce gently.
- Grater – for freshly grating Parmesan cheese to get the best flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp to make a lighter, seafood twist that cooks quickly.
- Stir in spinach or kale near the end for a fresh boost of green and nutrients.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet flavor contrast.
- Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or Italian seasoning to give the sauce a warm, herby depth.
Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Parmesan Chicken Pasta takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing and cooking the chicken, around 10 minutes boiling the pasta, and 5-10 minutes making the creamy sauce and putting it all together. It’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. When melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Continue stirring for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss it well to coat every noodle. Slice the rested chicken breasts and lay them on top of the creamy pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Definitely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. Keep in mind the sauce may be less rich but still tasty.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta and chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce is too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta instead of fettuccine. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times. Make sure any added seasonings or cheese are also gluten-free.
