Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta (Printer-Friendly)
Golden chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy parmesan sauce create comforting flavor in every bite.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Main Components
01 -
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 -
12 ounces penne pasta
03 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
04 -
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
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1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced
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1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
14 -
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
# Steps to Make This:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 9 to 11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain pasta and set aside.
02 -
Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3 minutes, then turn and cook an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 -
Return the same skillet to medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle flour into the pan and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to form a light golden roux.
04 -
Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps, then gradually add heavy cream, continuing to stir. Bring to a low simmer. Add parmesan cheese a handful at a time, letting each addition melt fully before adding more. Stir in sundried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and coats the back of a spoon.
05 -
Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Gently fold to coat all the pasta and chicken evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta cooking water to reach the desired consistency. Simmer together for 2 minutes for flavors to meld.
06 -
Remove from heat. Stir in chopped basil. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and fresh basil as desired.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
This dish develops deeper flavor when made ahead and reheats well for meal prep.
02 -
Reserve some pasta water to easily adjust the sauce thickness.
03 -
Let cream reach room temperature before adding to the pan to prevent curdling.
04 -
Sun-dried tomatoes are essential for the signature tang and richness.