© Original Recipe By Magic Spoon Recipes ©
Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta 🍝🧀✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the richness of cheese with succulent chicken and tender pasta, then this Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is an absolute must-try! Also known as Creamy Chicken Pasta or Parmesan Chicken Pasta, this dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. It’s an easy weeknight dinner idea that feels indulgent and satisfying, yet simple enough to prepare in under 30 minutes.
2. Ingredients Needed for Cheese Pasta
- 12 oz. of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta
Preparing the Pasta and Chicken
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sautéing the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent boiling. Add grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Combining Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and stir briefly until melted. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
4. Storage Tips for Cheese Pasta
Allow the Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens upon standing, stir in a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.
5. Serving Suggestions for Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For an extra hearty meal, serve alongside garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette. For wine lovers, a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy cheese pasta beautifully.
6. FAQs about Cheese Pasta
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based proteins for a vegetarian twist. Simply adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta options to make this cheese pasta dish gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The total preparation and cooking time is about 25-30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Enhance your cooking with a reliable cookware set that heats evenly and makes cleanup effortless — perfect for making creamy pasta dishes like this cheese pasta.
- Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker: While not essential, enjoying a freshly brewed coffee alongside your pasta adds a gourmet touch to your dinner.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics: For a healthy side of roasted vegetables or crispy chicken bites to go with your cheese pasta.
8. Final Tips for Perfect Cheese Pasta
For an extra flavorful twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to achieve that perfect balance of cheesy richness and savory depth. Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will give your dish an authentic, intense flavor that pre-grated varieties can’t match.
9. Conclusion
There you have it — a delicious, creamy, cheesy Parmesan Chicken Pasta that’s as comforting as it is easy to make! Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this cheese pasta will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking and enjoy every hearty bite of this irresistible dish!
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Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A quick and hearty cheesy Parmesan chicken pasta with tender chicken and a creamy sauce.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and toss to combine and coat in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor.
- For extra richness, add a dollop of cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg