Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta recipe is a rich and creamy one-pan meal that combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with al dente penne pasta cooked in a flavorful garlic and onion-infused chicken broth, finished with parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and fresh parsley for a comforting and delicious dinner ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 4–6 large cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten-free, or protein pasta)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub both sides of the chicken breasts with the seasoning mixture. Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Pasta: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon avocado oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add 8 ounces of dry penne pasta, stir to combine, then cover the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish the Dish: Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese, ½ cup heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and is creamy. Slice the rested chicken into strips and add it back to the pan. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients and allow the chicken to warm through before serving.
Notes
- Butterflying or pounding the chicken helps it cook evenly and quickly.
- You can substitute penne with any pasta of choice, including gluten-free or protein-enriched options.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a cream alternative.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
