Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious twist on two classic favorites—crispy chicken Parmesan and hearty pasta. It’s cheesy, saucy, and loaded with flavor, making it the perfect comfort meal for any night of the week. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this dish is a go-to when you want something satisfying and simple.
Why We Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
One of the best parts about this Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe is its versatility. You can serve it for a romantic dinner or a family meal, and it never fails to impress. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, savory sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze! You might find yourself making it more often than you anticipated.
Another appealing aspect of this dish is how quickly you can whip it up. In less than 30 minutes, your table can be adorned with this sumptuous meal, encouraging moments of warmth and togetherness over good food. Whether you’re a culinary novice or an experienced home cook, this recipe offers a forgiving process, welcoming changes and additions to suit your preferences.
Let’s get you started with everything you need for this delightful creation!
Ingredients About Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this wonderful Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Each ingredient plays a vital role in adding flavor and texture, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
- 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 20 g (1 tablespoon) unsalted butter
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cup (300 ml) tomato sauce (passata)
- 1 cup half and half (single cream)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) Parmesan, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Understanding these ingredients will allow you to appreciate their unique contributions to the dish, helping you celebrate every bite.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Directions
Creating Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a straightforward process that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for ease of preparation. Follow these easy directions to get this dish on your dinner table in no time!
- Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, sprinkle in some salt and add your pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1-2 cups of pasta water before you drain it!
- Heat Oils: While your pasta cooks, grab a large deep pan or a Dutch oven. Heat the olive oil over medium heat, and then add the butter to melt.
- Cook Chicken: Once the oil and butter are hot, toss in the cubed chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden.
- Add Vegetables: Now it’s time to enhance the flavor! Stir in the finely diced onion, chopped garlic, and red chili flakes. Cook this mixture for an additional 2 minutes, stirring regularly until the onion softens.
- Create the Sauce: Add in the Italian seasoning and the tomato sauce (passata). Mix it well so the flavors meld. Then pour in the half and half and stir again. Allow the sauce to bubble gently on low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the sauce. Toss everything together, and sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese.
- Finish and Serve: Mix until the pasta is well-coated, then add the freshly chopped parsley. Taste it and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve it immediately to enjoy while it’s hot and fresh.
This recipe ensures that you’re not just making a meal; you’re crafting an experience that combines aroma, flavor, and comfort all in one bowl.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Serving your Chicken Parmesan Pasta is as important as making it. To create an inviting dining experience, consider these serving tips:
- Presentation Matters: Serve the pasta in warm bowls to keep it at the perfect temperature. You can garnish with additional parsley or extra grated Parmesan to make it visually appealing.
- Pair it Right: This dish pairs excellently with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad, providing a delightful contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Add a Touch of Freshness: A squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving can brighten the flavors, adding a refreshing twist.
- Serving Portions: This recipe typically serves 4, making it excellent for family meals. When serving, consider your guests’ appetites and adjust the portions accordingly.
Expert Tips: Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Here are some expert tips to elevate your Chicken Parmesan Pasta to the next level:
- Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure that your chicken pieces are uniform in size. This helps them cook evenly and prevents any undercooked bits.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: The bubbling of the sauce on low heat allows for the flavors to intensify. Take your time, and let the ingredients marry for the best outcome.
- Adjust Thickness: If your sauce seems too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Variety of Cheeses: While Parmesan is traditional, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a creamier texture.
- Extra Vegetables: If you want to introduce more nutrition, consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers when cooking the onions and garlic.
By following these expert tips, your dish will be not only delicious but also uniquely yours, memorably marked by your personal touch.
How to Store Chicken Parmesan Pasta
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! Storing Chicken Parmesan Pasta is simple:
- Refrigerate: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they should be good for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water will help regain its creamy texture.
- Freezing: While it’s possible to freeze this dish, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly when thawed. If you choose this method, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up.
Taking the time to store your Chicken Parmesan Pasta properly ensures that you can savor it long after it’s been made.
Variation of Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Chicken Parmesan Pasta is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few variations you might want to explore:
- Meat Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using turkey or even a plant-based protein. Both work well as substitutes without compromising taste.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant, or consider crispy tofu for added protein.
- Different Sauces: For a twist, you could try adding pesto or a white sauce instead of the tomato base. These alternatives provide a fresh take on the classic dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add some diced jalapeños to the mix.
These variations not only allow for creativity in the kitchen but also enable you to cater to specific dietary preferences or simply shake things up a bit.
FAQ Section
What is Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken pieces with pasta, coated in a creamy tomato sauce and topped with Parmesan cheese. It combines two beloved meals into one delicious plate!
How long does it take to make Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
This delightful dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes! From boiling the pasta to serving it hot, you’ll have a satisfying meal in no time.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Pasta in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. It reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
This dish pairs excellently with garlic bread, a refreshing salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked properly?
Cut the chicken into uniform pieces and cook them until they are golden and cooked through. This typically takes around 5-6 minutes in the hot pan.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Cooking Ingredients
- 10.5 oz 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta Use your favorite pasta type.
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
- 20 g 20 g (1 tablespoon) unsalted butter Adds richness to the dish.
- 1 lb 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces Ensure chicken is cut uniformly.
- 1 small 1 small onion, finely diced Adds flavor and sweetness.
- 2 large 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped Enhances aroma and flavor.
Spices and Seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes Adds a slight kick.
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Brings classic Italian flavors.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup 1 1/2 cup (300 ml) tomato sauce (passata) The base of the sauce.
- 1 cup 1 cup half and half (single cream) Creates a creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup (50 g) Parmesan, grated For topping and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish and freshness.
Seasoning to Taste
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Adjust seasoning according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, sprinkle in some salt and add your pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1-2 cups of pasta water before you drain it!
- While your pasta cooks, grab a large deep pan or a Dutch oven. Heat the olive oil over medium heat, and then add the butter to melt.
- Once the oil and butter are hot, toss in the cubed chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden.
- Stir in the finely diced onion, chopped garlic, and red chili flakes. Cook this mixture for an additional 2 minutes, stirring regularly until the onion softens.
- Add in the Italian seasoning and the tomato sauce (passata). Mix it well so the flavors meld. Then pour in the half and half and stir again. Allow the sauce to bubble gently on low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the sauce. Toss everything together, and sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese.
- Mix until the pasta is well-coated, then add the freshly chopped parsley. Taste it and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve it immediately to enjoy while it’s hot and fresh.