There’s something magical about a dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and rich flavor all in one bite. That’s exactly what you get with this Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe. It’s a lighter take on a traditional Italian favorite, bringing together juicy chicken, a creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly al dente pasta for a meal that feels indulgent but is easy enough for any night of the week.
This is the kind of pasta dish that comes together quickly but delivers big on flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress guests with something homemade and hearty, this recipe has you covered.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Pasta
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Balanced Comfort Food: Creamy and cheesy, yet lighter than a traditional Chicken Parmesan.
- Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy—just pantry staples and fresh basics.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with veggies, more spice, or whole wheat pasta.
- Authentic Italian Flavors: Inspired by classic Italian comfort food.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 20 g (1 tablespoon) unsalted butter
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1½ cups (300 ml) tomato sauce (passata)
- 1 cup half and half (or single cream)
- ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt it generously and cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1–2 cups of pasta water before draining, and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large deep pan or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and melt butter over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and sauté for 5–6 minutes until slightly golden and mostly cooked through.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and red chili flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add Italian seasoning and stir in the tomato sauce (passata). Mix well, then stir in the half and half, blending until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Finish the Dis
Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes, then add the cooked pasta and stir to combine. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serv
Sprinkle in fresh parsley, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve immediately. Optional: top with extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Expert Tips
- Reserve Pasta Water: Use it to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Even Chicken Pieces: Cut chicken uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: It melts better and offers richer flavor than pre-grated.
- Add Mozzarella: For an extra cheesy touch, stir in a bit of shredded mozzarella at the end.
Variations to Try
- Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
- Spice It Up: Add more red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: Use alternative pastas for dietary needs.
- Make It a Bake: Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil for a golden cheesy crust.
What to Serve With Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Pair this creamy pasta with:
- Garlic bread or crusty ciabatta
- A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli
- A glass of Chianti or your favorite dry white wine
Storage & Reheating Tip
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: You can freeze this dish for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
Why This Recipe Works Year-Round
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is versatile enough for all seasons. In the summer, serve it with a bright salad and chilled wine. In the winter, cozy up with this creamy, comforting bowl alongside roasted vegetables and garlic bread.
Reader Reviews
“This was a hit with the whole family! I added spinach and used rigatoni. So creamy and easy!” – Maria, Texas
“Better than takeout! This is on our weekly dinner rotation now.” – Josh, Illinois
Join the Table
Have you tried this creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta? We’d love to hear how you made it your own! Share your tips or add-ins in the comments, or tag your dish on social media using #ChickenParmesanPasta.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
- 10.5 oz 300 g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 20 g 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 lb 450 g chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1½ cups 300 ml tomato sauce (passata)
- 1 cup half and half or single cream
- ½ cup 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt it generously and cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1–2 cups of pasta water before draining, and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- In a large deep pan or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and melt butter over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and sauté for 5–6 minutes until slightly golden and mostly cooked through.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
- Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and red chili flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
- Add Italian seasoning and stir in the tomato sauce (passata). Mix well, then stir in the half and half, blending until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes, then add the cooked pasta and stir to combine. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle in fresh parsley, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve immediately. Optional: top with extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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