Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©

Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Easy Chicken Dinner 🍝🧀✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make chicken pasta recipe that combines cheesy goodness with rich cream and fragrant Parmesan cheese, look no further. This cheesy chicken pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a hearty meal that comes together quickly. With its luscious sauce and tender chicken, this creamy Parmesan pasta is sure to become a family favorite!

2. Ingredients Needed for Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

3. Step-by-Step Preparation for the Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Cooking the Chicken

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Preparing the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Combining the Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serving the Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy this savory, cheesy pasta dish that delivers easy chicken dinner satisfaction in every bite.

4. Tips for Making an Amazing Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and authentic cheesy goodness.
• You can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
• Cook the pasta al dente to ensure it doesn’t turn mushy when combined with the sauce.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

5. How to Store and Reheat Your Leftover Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. For best results, reheat gradually to maintain the creamy texture.

6. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Chicken Pasta Dish

This cheesy chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread or crusty French bread makes an excellent addition. For a complete feast, consider finishing with a light dessert like our chocolate croissant breakfast bake.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Can I use cooked chicken leftovers?

Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Just toss the pre-cooked chicken into the sauce to heat through.

What are suitable substitutions for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

From start to finish, this easy chicken dinner takes approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Incorporate spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for perfectly cooked chicken or reheating leftovers with ease for that crispy finish.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your skillet heats evenly and makes cleanup a breeze, improving your pasta and chicken cooking experience.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Great for grilling chicken breasts to juicy perfection and even making crispy leftovers.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange – Perfect for preparing pasta dough at home if you want to make fresh pasta from scratch.

9. Conclusion

This cheesy creamy Parmesan chicken pasta recipe is your new go-to for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying easy chicken dinner. Its irresistible cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta make it ideal for weeknight meals or even special occasions. Give it a try today and elevate your pasta game with this creamy Parmesan delight.

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