Description
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet is a creamy, flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses infused with garlic and Italian seasoning. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic and Broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
Pasta and Seasonings
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then stir in the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has reduced.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy, creating a rich cheese sauce that coats the pasta and chicken evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness, then serve the skillet pasta warm.
Notes
- Using diced chicken breast ensures quick and even cooking.
- Sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- You can substitute penne or rotini with any short pasta shape.
- The crushed red pepper flakes are optional; omit for a milder dish.
- Stir regularly when simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the skillet.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor and a pop of color as garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
