Description
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This lightened-up Chicken Parmesan Pasta is comfort food at its best, combining rich flavors without the heaviness! Using just a few ingredients, it features tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and a touch of parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s quick to prepare and brings the family together with every bite.
10.5 oz pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
20g unsalted butter
1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, chopped
¼ tsp red chili flakes
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1½ cup tomato sauce
1 cup half and half
½ cup Parmesan, grated
2 tbsp parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Cook pasta al dente. Reserve 1-2 cups pasta water.
2. Heat oil and butter, cook chicken until golden.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili flakes. Cook until softened.
4. Add seasoning, tomato sauce, cream, simmer.
5. Stir in pasta, Parmesan, parsley. Serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 min
Kcal: 535
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta (like penne or rigatoni) until al dente, then drain, reserving at least 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the chopped garlic and red chili flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning. Pour in the tomato sauce and half-and-half, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a vegetable side, try roasted broccoli or garlic breadsticks. To elevate the presentation, garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a few fresh basil leaves. For a true restaurant-style touch, serve the pasta in a warm, shallow bowl.
How-to Summary
In summary: cook pasta and reserve water. Brown seasoned chicken in oil and butter. Sauté onion, garlic, and chili flakes. Build the sauce with seasoning, tomato sauce, and cream. Simmer, then combine everything with pasta, Parmesan, and parsley, using reserved pasta water to adjust consistency. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half? Yes, heavy cream will create a richer, thicker sauce. You may want to use slightly less (about 3/4 cup) to avoid it becoming too heavy.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure all other packaged ingredients, like tomato sauce, are certified gluten-free.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I use pre-cooked or leftover chicken? Absolutely. Add shredded or cubed cooked chicken in the final step when you combine the pasta and sauce, just to heat it through. This prevents it from becoming dry.
Is there a substitute for half-and-half to make it lighter? For a lighter version, you can use whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce, or try evaporated milk for creaminess without all the fat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy reserved water is crucial for creating a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken cubes on too high heat or for too long will make them tough. Cook just until no longer pink inside.
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce: Always remove the skillet from direct heat or turn it to low before stirring in the Parmesan to prevent it from clumping or becoming greasy.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Freshly grated Parmesan melts much more smoothly.
Conclusion
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta masterfully delivers the beloved flavors of the classic dish in a simpler, weeknight-friendly format. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a creamy, comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is straightforward to prepare. It’s a versatile recipe that invites customization and is sure to become a reliable favorite for family dinners and casual entertaining alike.