This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate lightened-up comfort food! Made with tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and plenty of Parmesan, it’s a simple, flavorful dinner the whole family will love. Ready in just 30 minutes using pantry staples—perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta
- Quick & Easy: Just 30 minutes start to finish.
- Comforting, but lighter: Made with half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a smooth, creamy texture without the heaviness.
- Family Favorite: Parmesan, pasta, and tender golden chicken—what’s not to love?
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pasta: Penne works great, but any short pasta will do.
- Olive oil + butter: A flavorful base for cooking the chicken.
- Chicken breast: Diced into bite-sized pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Onion & garlic: Adds depth and aroma.
- Red chili flakes (optional): For a little kick.
- Italian seasoning: A quick blend that adds bold flavor.
- Tomato sauce (passata): Smooth and rich without chunks.
- Half and half (single cream): For a light, creamy finish.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for taste and texture.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh finishing touch.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1–2 cups of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter. Add diced chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden.
- Add aromatics: Stir in finely chopped onion, garlic, and chili flakes (if using), and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Make the sauce: Add Italian seasoning and tomato sauce. Stir in the half and half and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes over low heat.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, use some reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Finish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it a bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.
- Add veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli.
- Boost the flavor: A touch of fresh basil or toasted breadcrumbs on top adds a gourmet touch.
- Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken.
Storage & Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Not freezer-friendly due to the creamy sauce texture.
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