Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast; 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Create a deliciously creamy and cheesy meal with this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. Packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings. Effortlessly made in your crockpot, it’s a time-saving recipe that will please everyone at the table. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that's sure to impress!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-23T08:55:47.102Z

This recipe brings together the comfort of pasta and the richness of parmesan chicken, making it a family favorite.

A Simple Dinner Solution

Many of us lead busy lives, juggling work, family, and social commitments, which can make cooking a complete meal feel overwhelming. This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta offers a perfect solution. With a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a rich, satisfying dish ready to serve. The use of a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your evenings for more important things like quality time with loved ones.

Moreover, the beauty of this meal lies in its simplicity. It’s just as suitable for a casual family dinner as it is for entertaining friends. With ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, you can whip up this delightful dish with little hassle. Not only will your taste buds be satisfied, but you’ll also feel accomplished having created a home-cooked meal with minimal effort.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the highlights of this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is its versatility. While the base ingredients are rich and delicious, feel free to get creative and add your favorite vegetables. Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms could provide added flavor and nutrition. Experimenting with ingredients allows you to tailor the recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand, making it a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

In addition, you can adjust the creaminess to your liking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, use more parmesan cheese or less chicken broth. On the other hand, for a lighter dish, go easy on the cream. The adaptability of this recipe means you can enjoy it your way every time, ensuring that it never gets boring.

Ideal for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who enjoys meal prepping, this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fantastic option for your weekly menu. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator and can easily be reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply portion it out into containers, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready whenever you need it, saving both time and effort during busy days.

Additionally, this dish freezes well, too! If you make a larger batch, simply place servings in airtight containers and freeze them. When you're ready to enjoy a serving, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. Not only do you reduce food waste, but you also have a comforting meal at your fingertips, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

1 lb chicken breast
8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic. Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

In the crockpot, add the seared chicken, chicken broth, heavy cream, and half of the parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.

Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and set aside.

Finish the Dish

Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, shred it in the crockpot. Stir in the cooked pasta and remaining parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy parmesan chicken pasta!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta to perfection is essential for any pasta dish, including this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. To achieve the best texture, make sure to use a large pot of boiling water and add a generous amount of salt. This step enhances the pasta's flavor significantly. Follow the package instructions closely, taking care not to overcook it; al dente is the way to go for a satisfying bite.

After draining your pasta, consider tossing it with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. This little trick keeps the noodles separate and allows the parmesan sauce to cling beautifully when incorporated into the dish. It's a small detail, but it makes all the difference in ensuring a flawless final product.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, think beyond the typical dinner plate. Pairing it with a fresh side salad can enhance the meal's overall enjoyment. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich creaminess of the pasta, offering refreshing contrast.

Garlic bread is another fantastic accompaniment! The buttery, garlicky taste complements the dish beautifully and provides a perfect vehicle for soaking up any leftover sauce. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade, garlic bread can elevate your dining experience with minimal additional effort.

Nutritional Information

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also provides a wholesome meal option. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, the parmesan cheese added contributes calcium, an important mineral for bone health, while the heavy cream adds richness and calorie content, making it hearty and filling.

However, for those watching their nutritional intake, consider making adjustments such as using low-fat cream or incorporating more vegetables to add fiber. This way, you maintain the satisfying flavor while enhancing the dish's nutritional profile. Enjoy this comforting meal without the guilt!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time in the crockpot.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.