Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Hey there! If you’re looking for a family-friendly dish that’s as easy as pie, you’ve come to the right place. This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a hit in our home, especially with my son Jake, who claims it’s his favorite meal. Trust me, once you try this creamy goodness, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in our dinner rotation.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love It

  • It’s super simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The creamy sauce is a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters.
  • You can throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work.

Pure Comfort

This dish is pure comfort food, bringing together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta in one delicious bowl. It’s like a warm hug after a long day.

What You Need

  • 1 lb 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 cup 1 cup cream of chicken soup – Use low-fat for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup 1 cup chicken broth – Homemade or store-bought works.
  • 1 cup 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for the best flavor.
  • 8 oz 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini) – Whole wheat pasta can be used as a healthier option.
  • 1 tsp 1 tsp garlic powder – Or use 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced.
  • 1 tsp 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Feel free to adjust based on your taste.
  • to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Season as desired.

Time to Cook

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 2 hours | Total: 2 hours 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

  1. Start by placing the chicken pieces in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re spread out evenly so they cook nicely. You’ll want them to be tender and juicy.
  2. Next, pour in the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over the chicken. Stir gently to combine everything. The mixture should look creamy and inviting.
  3. Now, sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the top. This will give your dish a wonderful aroma as it cooks. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Cover the crockpot and set it on low for about 2 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily with a fork. The smell will be heavenly!
  5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare your pasta according to package instructions. Cook it until al dente, so it holds its shape well when mixed with the sauce.
  6. Once the chicken is ready, stir in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. It should look rich and cheesy.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge.

Make It Perfect

  • For a little extra flavor, consider adding some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.
  • If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up nicely.
  • To make it even creamier, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.

Mix It Up

  • Substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a different protein.
  • Try adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition.
  • Use a different cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique twist.

Perfect Partners

  • Serve with a side salad for a fresh crunch.
  • Garlic bread pairs perfectly to soak up that creamy sauce.
  • A glass of white wine can elevate your dinner experience.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the day before and store them in the fridge.

How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade white sauce.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. It’s comforting, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. Give it a try, and I bet you’ll be adding it to your dinner rotation too!