Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how to create a restaurant-quality pasta dish that takes less than 35 minutes from start to finish? The secret might surprise you—it’s all in using just one skillet for your entire meal. Not only does this method save time and dishes, but it also has scientific benefits for cooking pasta properly, as the pasta releases starch into a smaller volume of liquid, creating a naturally thicker sauce.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 8 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite shape)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (substitute: 1 tablespoon jarred minced garlic)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (substitute: half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (substitute: pre-grated, but fresh is recommended)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes (that’s 15 minutes less than traditional pasta recipes that require separate pots!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. The secret to perfectly browned chicken is not overcrowding the pan and letting each piece develop a golden crust before flipping.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Remove the cooked chicken and set aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. This quick cooking prevents the garlic from burning while releasing its aromatic oils into the pan, creating the foundation of flavor for your sauce.

Step 3: Create the Base for Your Sauce

Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to incorporate any browned bits from the bottom—these contain concentrated flavor! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will help thicken the sauce naturally without needing additional thickeners.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce

Add the uncooked pasta directly to the simmering liquid. This one-skillet technique allows the pasta to absorb the flavors as it cooks while releasing starches that naturally thicken your sauce. Cover and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed (approximately 12–15 minutes).

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Return the Chicken

Reduce heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the cheesy sauce. Allow everything to heat through for 2-3 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish that cuts through the richness of the dish. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation that keeps the pasta warm throughout your meal.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 6):

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 137mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to lighten up this indulgent dish without sacrificing flavor? Try these smart swaps:

• Protein Swap: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more tender result with only slightly more fat, or substitute with turkey breast for a leaner option.
• Cream Alternative: Replace heavy cream with evaporated milk or Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk for a protein boost and fewer calories.
• Pasta Options: Choose whole wheat pasta, protein-enriched varieties, or even chickpea pasta to increase fiber and reduce the glycemic impact.
• Vegetable Boost: Add 2 cups of fresh spinach or kale in the final cooking stages, or mix in roasted broccoli or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients and color.
• Cheese Reduction: Use a smaller amount of strongly flavored cheese like sharp Parmesan or aged white cheddar to maintain flavor while reducing fat content.

Serving Suggestions

This one-skillet wonder stands beautifully on its own, but these complementary sides can elevate your meal even further:

• Fresh Side Salad: Balance the richness with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
• Garlic Bread: Use the same skillet after serving to toast up some garlic bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts adds texture contrast and nutritional value.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio or light Chardonnay beautifully complements the creamy, garlic flavors.
• Family Style: Serve directly in the skillet at the center of the table for a rustic, communal dining experience that keeps the dish warm throughout the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Check pasta frequently during the last few minutes of cooking—it should be al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce after removed from heat.
• Using Cold Cheese: Cold cheese clumps rather than melts smoothly. Allow cheeses to come to room temperature before adding to the hot pasta.
• Cooking at Too High Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to prevent the cream from separating or the bottom from scorching.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken to the perfect consistency.
• Forgetting to Stir: Regular stirring prevents pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Maximize the convenience of this one-skillet dish with these smart storage solutions:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors often intensify overnight, making next-day leftovers even more delicious.
• Reheating: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating to restore the creamy texture, as the pasta will have absorbed much of the sauce.
• Freezing: While possible, cream-based pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, do so in individual portions and use within 1 month.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the chicken ahead of time and store separately, then complete the dish fresh for the best texture and flavor.
• Pasta Separation: If making ahead, slightly undercook the pasta by 1-2 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.

Conclusion

Our Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet transforms everyday ingredients into an extraordinary meal with minimal effort and cleanup. If you enjoy pasta dishes like this, you might also love our spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for another easy weeknight option.. We’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you! Share your experience in the comments below, or tag us in your social media posts with #RecipeWithMary.

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